WORK AND PENSIONS

Benefit Payment Methods

David Taylor: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what discussions he has had with interested parties on the successor arrangements to the Post Office card account for the payment of pensions and benefits.

James Plaskitt: The bulk of the discussions have, quite properly, been with Post Office Ltd. and we have been talking to them about this since last summer. The first meeting on this was in fact instigated by the former chief executive of Post Office Ltd. (David Mills). The meetings have covered a number of issues, including the DWP pilots which have been running over the last few weeks. We also advised the National Federation and Postwatch before the pilots started.
	Once these have been analysed, the results will be shared with Post Office Ltd., and thereafter, I anticipate further discussion with customer groups and others, as is normal practice.

Pension Schemes

Peter Viggers: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what his estimate is of the shortfall in private pension schemes.

Stephen Timms: Pension fund deficits can be estimated in a number of ways.
	In July 2005 the consultation document on the Pension Protection Levy estimated that as at September 2004 the aggregate deficit, on a Pension Protection Fund basis, was £134 billion.
	In October 2005 the pensions regulator estimated that, as at December 2004, the aggregate deficit measured by FRS 17 accounting standards was £130 billion.

New Deal

Stephen Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what representations he has received on his Department's report, a new deal for welfare: empowering people to work.

Margaret Hodge: We have already had discussion with many hundreds of stakeholders, including disability organisation, employers, providers, lone parent organisations and providers of employment services. Since the launch of the Welfare Reform Green Paper we have distributed over 3,500 versions to interested parties.
	In the coming month we will be hosting events which specifically focus on our key proposals. Many organisations and individuals are writing to us. We intend to publish a report on the consultants and we will of course have regard to representations as we draw up our legislative proposals.

New Deal

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many young people have been assisted by the new deal in Coventry, South; and if he will make a statement.

Margaret Hodge: The new deal for young people has helped to virtually eradicate long term youth unemployment and has been successful in helping nearly 650,000 young people into work. Information on the numbers of young people helped by the programme in Coventry, South is in the following table:
	
		New deal for young people in Coventry South
		
			 Individuals starting new deal for young people(1) Individuals into work through new deal for young people(2) 
		
		
			 2,180 1,290 
		
	
	(1) Latest data to the end of November 2005.
	(2) Latest data to the end of August 2005.
	Note:
	Figures are rounded to the nearest 10.
	Source:
	Department for Work and Pensions Information Directorate.

Incapacity Benefit

Justine Greening: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many servicemen and ex-servicemen claim incapacity benefit; and if he will make a statement.

Margaret Hodge: Information on customer's previous or current employers is not held on incapacity benefit claims.

Incapacity Benefit

Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  pursuant to his oral statement of 24 January 2006, Official Report, columns 1305–12W, on the Welfare Reform Green Paper, what the baseline year is for measuring the target to reduce the number of people on incapacity benefit by one million over 10 years;
	(2)  what estimate he has made of the proportion of existing incapacity benefit claimants who will flow off benefit and into work following the introduction of the proposals outlined in the Green Paper A New Deal for Welfare: Empowering People to Work;
	(3)  whether he plans to set targets for existing incapacity benefit caseload reduction by geographical area;
	(4)  whether he plans to set a public service agreement target for the reduction of incapacity benefit claimants by one million by 2018;
	(5)  what impact he expects the measures proposed in the Green Paper A New Deal for Welfare: Empowering People to Work to have on the existing (a) incapacity benefit and (b) severe disablement allowance caseload.

Margaret Hodge: The Green Paper set out our proposed measures to significantly reduce the number of people claiming and receiving incapacity benefits. These measures included improvements to workplace health, reform of the gateway, increased support for claimants and removing the perverse incentives in the system.
	While it is difficult to model the precise impact of these measures at this early stage, the Green Paper set out our aspiration to reduce the number of claimants of incapacity benefits by one million over the course of a decade through the combined efforts of the Government, employers, local authorities and health professionals. More precise measures will be established in due course.

Ability to Work (Assessment)

David Borrow: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment he has made of whether changes are required to the medical assessment process of an individual's ability to work.

Margaret Hodge: The current personal capability assessment focuses entirely on an individual's limits to functional capabilities, as a way of determining eligibility for benefit. It gives no regard to a person's capabilities.
	In our Green Paper on Welfare Reform, we set out our plans for transforming the assessment into a much more constructive and proactive process, focusing not just on what an individual can't do but on what they can do as well. We will identify the barriers preventing an individual from returning to work and the types of support and intervention needed to overcome those barriers. We will also identify those people whose illness or disability limits them so severely that it would be unreasonable to expect to engage in work-related activity at that point in time. They will be entitled to a higher rate of benefit.

Ambition Programme

Justine Greening: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  how many unemployed people have participated in the Ambition programme in each month since its commencement; how many people are participating in the programme; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  how many previously unemployed people participating in the Ambition programme have been identified as still working in the same sector 26 weeks after gaining a job, broken down by sector; and if he will make a statement;
	(3)  what assessment the Department has made of the Ambition programme since its introduction; what plans there are to continue with the programme; and if he will make a statement.

Margaret Hodge: holding answer 23 January 2006
	8,357 people participated in the time-limited Ambition programmes.
	Information on the total number of people participating on the programme at any one time is not collected however the average number of starters per month, by sector, is in the table.
	
		Ambition programme—average starts to the programme per month
		
			  Date programme first started Total number of participants Number of months programme delivered Average number of starters per month 
		
		
			 Retail June 2002 1,060 24 44 
			 IT April 2003 2,020 30 67 
			 Construction July 2002 1,696 30 57 
			 HealthOctober 2004 397 9 44 
			 Energy March 2002 3,184 45 71 
		
	
	Source:
	Employer Services Division, Department for Work and Pensions.
	Ambition Retail, IT and Construction have now come to an end and Ambition Energy and Health will end in March.
	There are currently 331 people participating on the Ambition programme, of which 225 people are undergoing training with Ambition Energy, and 106 people with Ambition Health.
	The number of people who secured a within 13 weeks of completing training and who were still working in the same sector after 26 weeks is set out in the following table.
	
		Ambition programme
		
			   Programme   Job entries Still in an Ambition job in the same sector after 26 weeks 
		
		
			 Ambition Energy 2,055 1,386 
			 Ambition Retail 544 337 
			 Ambition Construction 852 517 
			 Ambition IT 765 483 
			 Ambition Health 116 10 
		
	
	Source:
	Employer Services Division, Department for Work and Pensions
	Courses for Energy and Health are still running, therefore final retention figures will not be available until late in 2006.
	The Ambition programme has shown that the collaborative approach adopted in working with industry and sector based partners has been highly successful. The programme has met its aims of supporting people into employment while at the same time developing new approaches to training and facilitating closer links with the key sector partners.
	We published an Ambition report last year Ambition: identifying best practice for demand-led approaches" GHK Consulting, DWP Research Report 264, 2005, which is in the Library. We will ensure that successful aspects of the Ambition programmes are incorporated into policies and programmes.

Benefit Claimants

Edward Miliband: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people have come off benefits and entered work in (a) South Yorkshire and (b) Doncaster North constituency in each year since 1997.

Margaret Hodge: The information is not available in the format requested.
	The Department for Work and Pensions Research Report No. 244 Destination of benefit leavers 2004showed that nationally, 62 per cent. of claimants leaving income support, incapacity benefit or jobseeker's allowance entered employment of 16 hours or more a week. Copies of the report are available in the Library.

Council Tax Benefit

Simon Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the criteria are for pensioners to qualify for council tax benefit; and if he will make a statement.

James Plaskitt: Pensioners receiving the guarantee element of pension credit are treated as having no income or capital and are entitled to council tax benefit in full, subject to any deductions for any non-dependant household member. In other cases, a pensioner's income is compared with an applicable amount. If their income is at or below the applicable amount, full benefit is payable, again subject to any deductions as set out above. Where income exceeds the applicable amount, or where capital is held, benefit is tapered off progressively depending on the amount of income and capital held.

Job Centres

Nick Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the turnover of staff was in job centres in (a) the London borough of Hillingdon, (b) Greater London and (c) England in the calendar year 2005.

Margaret Hodge: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the chief executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. She will write to the hon. Member.
	Letter from Lesley Strathie
	The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question about the turnover of staff in Jobcentres in (a) the London Borough of Hillingdon, (b) Greater London and (c) England in the calendar year 2005. This is something that falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
	Jobcentre Plus does not hold figures for the turnover of staff for individual London boroughs, for Greater London or for England alone. However we do collect figures under the following headings:
	
		Staff turnover rates for the period December 2004 to December 2005 -- Percentage
		
			  Staff turnover rate 
		
		
			 Brent, Harrow and Hillingdon District 5.8 
			 London Government Office Region 6.2 
			 Great Britain 6.5 
		
	
	Source:
	Combined Dataview
	I hope this is helpful.

Jobcentre Plus

Mark Williams: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what provision has been made for (a) people who are hard of hearing and (b) Welsh language speakers under the Jobcentre Plus customer management system.

Margaret Hodge: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. She will write to the hon. Member.
	Letter from Lesley Strathie
	The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your questions asking what provision has been made for (a) people who are hard of hearing and (b) Welsh language speakers under the Jobcentre Plus Customer Management System. This is something which falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
	The Customer Management System (CMS) is the IT system which supports the Jobcentre Plus process for gathering information from customers to support claims to Working Age Benefits. Claim information is primarily gathered via the telephone with customers contacting a Contact Centre, but also by face-to-face meetings and postal applications.
	All the Contact Centres have fully trained text phone users to enable a customer to converse via a text phone. Arrangements are in place for staff in the Contact Centre to identify vulnerable customers, including those who are hard of hearing, and make alternative arrangements. This might include use of a text phone, or arrangements for a face-to-face meeting at the local Jobcentre when a fully trained face-to-face First Contact Officer will take the required details from the customer. Jobcentre Plus offices are equipped with induction loops to support our vulnerable customers. Alternatively, the customer could elect to be represented by a third party.
	Where a customer wishes to converse in Welsh, the First Contact Officer will identify if there are any Welsh-speaking colleagues in the office who are available to take the call. The customer can then talk to the relevant Welsh-speaking officer to continue the process of gathering information. Where a Welsh-speaking First Contact Officer is not available, arrangements are made to call the customer back when one is available. Once all the relevant information has been gathered, the Contact Centre will then arrange for the notifications to be translated via the Welsh Language Unit before issuing them to the customer.
	I hope this is helpful.

Jobcentre Plus

Philip Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what national targets have been set for Jobcentre Plus benefit application processing times; and what has been performance against targets over the last two years.

Margaret Hodge: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. She will write to the hon. Member.
	Letter from Lesley Strathie
	The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question asking what national targets have been set for Jobcentre Plus benefit application processing times and what has been performance against targets over the last two years. This is something that falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
	Jobcentre Plus does not have targets for benefit processing times. However, data relating to claim clearance times is collected and measured against acceptable standards of delivery" that are set at the beginning of the year. The length of time it takes to process a claim is measured by looking at the Actual Average Clearance Time of claims within a set period and is a Key Management Indicator.
	The acceptable standards of delivery are: Income Support— 12 days, Jobseeker's Allowance—12 days, Incapacity Benefit— 9 days.
	The information requested is in the table.
	
		
			 Monthly average actual clearance times Income support (12 days acceptable standard) Jobseeker's allowance (12 days acceptable standard) Incapacity benefit (19 days acceptable standard) 
		
		
			 2004
			 January 10.9 11.1 19.2 
			 February 10.8 11.7 17.4 
			 March 10.7 11.4 17.0 
			 April 11.2 11.6 16.7 
			 May 11.5 11.8 16.6 
			 June 10.9 11.5 17.4 
			 July 10.7 11.8 17.2 
			 August 10.8 12.8 17.0 
			 September 10.9 12.3 17.2 
			 October 10.8 12.2 16.6 
			 November 10.9 12.3 17.2 
			 December 10.5 11.8 16.4 
			 2005
			 January 11.1 12.2 20.2 
			 February 10.2 12.8 16.6 
			 March 10.0 12.4 14.9 
			 April 10.3 12.4 16.0 
			 May 10.5 12.9 15.5 
			 June 10.5 13.1 15.0 
			 July 10.7 13.5 14.9 
			 August 11.2 14.1 14.7 
			 September 11.4 14.7 15.6 
			 October 11.6 15.4 15.7 
			 November 11.7 15.6 16,1 
			 December 11.6 14.7 15.5 
		
	
	A Jobseeker's Allowance taskforce has been created to address fluctuating Jobseeker's Allowance clearance times and set in place immediate recovery measures, whilst longer term issues are also being taken forward. More immediate measures include the more effective distribution of workloads amongst the Contact Centre network to improve performance.
	Building on the taskforce's work, the Jobcentre Plus Chief Operating Officer launched a National Action Plan in the week commencing 30 January. The Action Plan is built around a mandatory series of health checks", taking local managers through the whole end to end process, identifying key risk elements and, where a part of the process fails the health check, directing managers to appropriate good practice products and tool-kits. Regular reviews are undertaken to ensure areas of our business do not fall below expectation. We are already seeing improvements following the introduction of these measures.
	I hope this is helpful.

Jobcentre Plus

David Kidney: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will give a higher priority in Jobcentre Plus's performance measurance to its performance in keeping employed people in their jobs.

Margaret Hodge: Jobcentre Plus's jobs target is based on a points system. The number of points awarded reflects the priority group of the customer helped into employment in line with the Government's priorities for welfare reform. Targets are reviewed annually.
	From April 2006 we will be using Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) data to measure job outcomes. This presents an opportunity to significantly improve our arrangements for measuring retention in work.

Lone Parents (Work-focused Interviews)

Danny Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans he has to use the private and voluntary sectors to deliver work-focused interviews to lone parents; and if he will make a statement.

Margaret Hodge: The private and voluntary sectors already deliver a significant proportion of our services to the public and we intend continuing our partnerships with not-for-profit and private sector organisations to encourage innovation and support delivery of our objectives, particularly in helping customers to address barriers to work.
	In our recently published Green Paper A new deal for welfare: Empowering people to work", we have proposed increased contact with lone parents through more frequent work focused interviews, as well as the intention to pilot a work-related activity premium to encourage lone parents with older children to take serious steps to return to work.

Pathways to Work Pilots

Jeremy Hunt: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what assessment his Department have made of the likely period of time it will take to reach the break even point when the Pathways to Work pilots are extended nationwide.

Margaret Hodge: The cost savings from measures outlined in the Green Paper depend to a large extent on the final proposals following the consultation. We know however that the existing Pathways to Work pilots are already generating savings, and we expect further savings from further roll-out. We announced in the Green Paper that we are looking to the private and voluntary sector to deliver many of the Pathways to Work schemes, and breakeven points will be affected by the final contracts agreed.

Pensioners (West Chelmsford)

Simon Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many pensioners live in the West Chelmsford parliamentary constituency; how many are in receipt of council tax benefit; and what percentage this is of the total number of pensioners living in the constituency.

James Plaskitt: Information about council tax benefit is not available broken down by parliamentary constituency. The available information for the Chelmsford borough council area is in the following table:
	
		Council Tax Benefit (CTB) recipients in the Chelmsford borough council area aged 60 years and over: August 2005
		
			   Population aged 60 and over   CTB recipients aged 60 and over Percentage of population aged 60 and over claiming CTB 
		
		
			 32,300 4,100 12.6 
		
	
	Source:
	Housing benefit and council tax benefit management information system quarterly 100 per cent. caseload stock-count taken in August 2005.
	Notes:
	1. The data refers to benefit units, which may be a single person or a couple.
	2. Figures have been rounded to the nearest hundred.
	3. Council tax benefit figures exclude any Second Adult Rebate cases.
	4. Population figures are mid-2004 estimates as provided by ONS, Population Estimates Unit.
	5. CTB recipients aged 60 or over applies where either the claimant or the partner are aged 60 or over.

Post Office Card Account

Alan Reid: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions when Parliament was first informed that (a) the Government's contract with the Post Office to pay pensions and benefits into Post Office card accounts lasted until 2010 and (b) the Government did not intend to renew this contract with the Post Office when it expired in 2010.

James Plaskitt: holding answer 13 February 2006
	We have always made clear that the Post Office card account was an interim measure designed to help some people move off order books if they were not yet ready to be paid into a bank account. For example, in a written answer on 4 February 2005 Official Report, column 1196W my predecessor said that The contract between Post Office Limited and DWP commenced on the 22 March 2002 and ends on 31 March 2010'.

Schools Adventure Activities

Paul Rowen: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what role the Health and Safety Executive plays in the assessment of arrangements for adventure activities undertaken by schools.

Anne McGuire: The Health and Safety Executive is responsible for enforcing health and safety legislation in schools and this includes requirements for assessing risks associated with adventure activities. HSE also gives advice to the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority which is responsible for licensing the provision of the more hazardous adventure activities undertaken by schools.
	HSE's approach is to encourage well-planned adventure activities, not to try and eliminate risk altogether.

Social Fund/Jobseeker's Allowance

Gwyn Prosser: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions 
	(1)  what the Department's target is for the time taken to process (a) a social fund application and (b) a jobseeker's allowance claim; and how many days on average were taken to process applications in the latest month for which figures are available;
	(2)  what the Department's target is for the time taken to process (a) a Crisis Loan application and (b) a benefit application; and how many days on average were taken to process applications in the latest month for which figures are available.

Margaret Hodge: The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. She will write to the hon. Member.
	Letter from Lesley Strathie
	The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your questions asking: what the Department's target is for the time taken to process (a) a social fund application and (b) a job seeker's allowance claim; and how many days on average were taken to process applications in the latest month for which figures are available; and, what the Department's target is for the time taken to process (a) a crisis loan application and (b) a benefit application; and how many days on average were taken to process applications in the latest month for which figures are available.
	This is something that falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.
	Jobcentre Plus defines its speed of processing benchmarks by reference to clearance times. By this we mean how many working days it takes, on average, to process benefit claims. This is referred to as the Actual Average Clearance Time (AACT) and each benefit is set its own AACT benchmark.
	For 2005–06 the Department has set as acceptable standards of delivery the following AACTs for all five elements of the Social Fund.
	9 days for Community Care Grants;
	6 days for Budgeting Loans;
	2 days for Crisis Loans;
	16 days for Funeral Payments;
	5 days for Sure Start Maternity Grants.
	For 2005–06 the Department has set the acceptable standard of delivery for Jobseekers Allowance at 12 days AACT.
	The information requested on average clearance times is in the table.
	
		
			 Benefit Standard AACT set for 2005–06—days Actual AACT—days December 2005 
		
		
			 Social fund community care grants 9 8.7 
			 Social fund budgeting loans 6 3.2 
			 Social fund crisis loans 2 1.4 
			 Social fund funeral payments 16 11.4 
			 Social fund sure start maternity grants 5 3.6 
			 Jobseeker's allowance 12 14.7 
		
	
	Source:
	DWP Social Fund Policy, Budget and Management Information System and Jobcentre Plus Ml Portal.
	A JSA taskforce has been created to address fluctuating JSA clearance times and set in place immediate recovery measures, whilst longer term and more fundamental issues are also being taken forward. More immediate measures include the more effective distribution of workloads amongst the Contact Centre network to improve performance.
	Building on the taskforce work, the Jobcentre Plus Chief Operating Officer will shortly launch a National Action Plan. The Action Plan is built around a mandatory series of health checks", taking local managers through the whole end to end process, identifying key risk elements and, where a part of the process fails the health check, directing managers to appropriate good practice products and tool-kits. This will be strengthened by regular senior management attention particularly in this area. Where performance is below expectation, Districts and Contact Centres will be required to draw up their own individual recovery plans.
	I hope this is helpful.

ENVIRONMENT FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS

Animal Welfare

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will introduce measures to prohibit the (a) import, (b) export and (c) re-export of (i) primates and (ii) marine mammals; and if she will make a statement.

Jim Knight: The import, export and re-export of primates and most marine mammals, including all whales and dolphins, monk seals, fur seals, sea otters, and Canadian populations of walrus, is already strictly regulated under Council Regulation 338/97, which implements the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) within the EU. Imports of harp and hood seal pup skins are also prohibited under the Import of Seal Skins Regulations 1996.
	These controls already give us adequate powers to suspend trade in primates and most marine mammals if necessary. However, our scientific advisors, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, do not consider that there are any conservation grounds for taking such action at this time.

Bird Protection

Angela Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will consult on adding the (a) peregrine falcon, (b) barn owl, (c) common raven and (d) red-billed chough to the schedule of species whose nests will be protected throughout the year.

Jim Knight: Clause 46 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill seeks to amend section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as it applies within England and Wales. This would provide year-round protection for birds which re-use their nests, and which are listed on schedule ZA1. The schedule lists the Golden Eagle, White-tailed Eagle, and Osprey and there are no current plans to include additional birds. Should evidence come to light that other birds would benefit from being listed, a full public consultation would need to take place before any decision was taken.
	Under section 1 of the 1981 Act all wild birds are protected against being killed, injured or taken, and their nests and eggs are protected against being taken, damaged or destroyed. In addition, peregrine falcons, barn owls and red-billed choughs, are protected against disturbance during their breeding season by virtue of being listed on schedule 1. There are signs that the populations of these three species are slowly increasing within the UK, and the current level of protection is therefore considered sufficient to ensure their continued breeding success. The raven is not listed as a bird of conservation concern.

Cattle Passports

John Thurso: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether applications for registration of cattle passports are recorded by (a) date of dispatch by the applicant, (b) postal receipt by the British Cattle Movement Service and (c) date of processing; and if she will make a statement.

Jim Knight: An application for the registration of a cattle passport is recorded by the date that it is received at the British Cattle Movement Service.
	A keeper has 27 days to apply for a cattle passport. Any applications that are received after this deadline will automatically be refused, but the keeper has the option to appeal against this decision. If an applicant wishes to appeal on the grounds that the postal service caused the application to be late, they will be required to provide independent evidence that they posted the application in good time.

Cattle Passports

John Thurso: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the effect of postal delays on the late delivery of cattle passport applications to the British Cattle Movement Service; and if she will make a statement.

Jim Knight: The British Cattle Movement Service is aware that there is the potential for late delivery of cattle passport applications and have procedures in place to account for this.
	Every year a plan is put in place to take into account the Christmas, Easter and bank holidays, as well as weekends. Receipt dates are also reviewed if there is a possibility of a postal strike, or any other industrial action which may impact the day when cattle passport applications are received. During these periods the scanning system is amended to show the last available working day as the receipt date.

Cattle Passports

John Thurso: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will instruct the British Cattle Movement Service, when accepting applications for cattle passports, to retain on file both the application and envelope which carries the date of posting of the relevant application.

Jim Knight: Applications for cattle passports are captured onto the cattle tracing system (CTS) on the day they are received. These are then retained as a scanned image for future reference.
	The British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) receives large volumes of paper applications on a daily basis, which at its peak can reach 30,000 per day. BCMS recently conducted a survey on the quality of the post marks on the envelopes and found that only 37 per cent. were legible. Owing to this information the option to retain the envelopes as evidence of the date of postage was not seen as viable.
	BCMS recommends to keepers who are concerned about the postal system to obtain a certificate of postage which are issued free by the Royal Mail.
	Promotions regularly take place highlighting the benefits of using CTS Web Services and CTS Online. Both of these enable keepers to apply for passports and receive a receipt confirming that the application or movement notifications have been received.

Cetaceans

Andrew George: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent assessment she has made of measures funded by her Department to monitor the (a) scale and (b) nature of cetacean strandings on the (i) Cornish and (ii) South West England coasts during (A) the present winter fishery and (B) the previous five years.

Ben Bradshaw: The winter fishery off the south west coast of England typically takes place any time between 1 November and 30 April. From 1 November 2005 to 7 March 2006, there have been 101 reports of stranded cetaceans in Cornwall and 13 cetaceans reported stranded in Devon and Dorset. A total of 42 post mortems were undertaken and, of these, the cause of death in 14 cases was determined as bycatch. The remaining 28 cases were determined either as physical trauma, infectious disease, live stranding, starvation or other undiagnosed causes.
	Table 1 gives a breakdown by species of the number of cetaceans stranded and the number that were diagnosed as bycaught for the present winter fisheries season.
	
		
			  Cornwall Devon/Dorset Total number diagnosed to be bycaught 
		
		
			 Dolphins (all species) 77 11 6 
			 Harbour Porpoise 24 2 8 
			 Total 101 13 14 
		
	
	Table 2 gives a breakdown of recorded strandings by species and the number which were bycaught for the previous five years by county. A total of 257 post mortems were carried out over the five years. The cause of death in 135 cases was determined as bycatch, and the remaining 122 cases were determined either as physical trauma, infectious disease, live stranding, starvation or other undiagnosed causes.
	
		
			  Dolphins Harbour Porpoise 
			  Cornwall Devon/Dorset Cornwall Devon/Dorset Total number diagnosed to be bycaught 
		
		
			 2000–01 43 38 15 17 27 
			 2001–02 84 50 58 8 30 
			 2002–03 177 99 33 12 28 
			 2003–04 106 69 104 12 32 
			 2004–05 59 28 29 13 18

Correspondence

Patrick Cormack: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she will reply to the letter of 8 October 2005 from the hon. Member for South Staffordshire regarding the waste composting site at Iverley Park Farm, which was transferred by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in November 2005.

Ben Bradshaw: I apologise for the delay in replying to the hon. Member's letter. A response will be issued shortly.

ENCAMS

Ashok Kumar: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much funding her Department has provided to ENCAMS in each year since 1997.

Ben Bradshaw: Government have provided ENCAMS with funding since 1997 as detailed in the following table.
	
		
			  £000 
		
		
			 1997–98 3,997 
			 1998–99 3,697 
			 1999–2000 3,762 
			 2000–01 3,542 
			 2001–02 3,762 
			 2002–03 (3)4,597 
			 2003–04 3,574 
			 2004–05 4,542 
			 2005–06 5,542 
		
	
	(3) Defra allocated an additional £1 million to local authorities through ENCAMS for the Local Environmental Quality Pathfinder Programme that forged partnerships between local authorities and the local community. Some of the projects developed reduced fast food litter, railway land litter and schools litter.

Fly-posting

Anne Snelgrove: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to increase the powers of local authorities to remove fly-posters.

Yvette Cooper: I have been asked to reply.
	From April local planning authorities will be able to enter occupied as well as unoccupied land in order to remove fly-posters and recover their costs of removing fly-posters by direct action. A notice may be served to require fly-posters to be removed from street furniture and other structures in or on any public street, and from surfaces owned, occupied or controlled by transport operators or providers, and educational institutions, provided the land is public or the surface is visible from public land or to members of the public using the services of that body

Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research

Daniel Rogerson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she expects research projects being undertaken by the Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research to be affected by the reduction in funding from her Department.

Jim Knight: The Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research (IGER) is contractually obliged to deliver the Defra-commissioned research projects currently being undertaken, the full costs of which are being met by my Department. Spending by Defra on research at IGER in the financial year 2006–07 is forecast to be around £5 million.

Landfill Directive

Michael Jack: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she expects the United Kingdom to meet its Landfill Directive Article 5 targets for (a) 2010 and (b) 2013; and if she will make a statement.

Ben Bradshaw: Meeting the Landfill Directive Article 5(2) diversion targets for biodegradable municipal waste in 2010 and 2013 remains very challenging but achievable. It depends on necessary investment soon in facilities including those to recover energy from biodegradable waste where there is no reasonable prospect of it being recycled or composted.

Nappies

John Leech: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what help her Department is providing to local authorities to introduce schemes designed to encourage parents to use reusable nappies.

Ben Bradshaw: The Waste and Resources Programme (WRAP) has been taking forward a programme of work to increase awareness about re-usable nappies.
	The aim of the WRAP initiative was to provide support to schemes run by local authorities and re-usable nappy businesses. In addition it provides information about re-usable nappies to parents and health professionals. The initiative received funding for a period of three years, and finishes at the end of March 2006.

Private Office

Sarah Teather: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the cost of her private office was in the last year for which figures are available.

Jim Knight: The overall cost of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' Secretariat for financial year 2004–05 (the last year for which figures are available) was £4,542,929. The Secretariat then encompassed the private offices of Ministers and the Permanent Secretary, Parliamentary Branch, Correspondence Section, Honours Section and Cabinet Section. The costs include Ministerial and staff salaries, staff training, travel and subsistence, publications, hospitality, office equipment purchase and running costs (including phone costs and IT software).

Recycling

John Randall: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much funding (a) Uxbridge and (b) the London Borough of Hillingdon received to support recycling in each year since 1997.

Ben Bradshaw: Funding and Support for Hillingdon from 1997:
	London Borough of Hillingdon received £402,500 in London's 2002–04 Round of funding (£202,500 Capital and £200,000 Revenue) for their project titled Kerbside Collection of Compostable Garden Waste".
	
		
			  Local authorities  Funding type Funding short description  Funding amount  Funding description  Start Date  End Date 
		
		
			 Hillingdon LB WPEG WPEG 225,905.00 Capital: 127,071 .52 1 April 2005 31 March 2006 
			 Revenue: 98,833.41   
			
			 Hillingdon LB LASU DCS HWRC Sites 18,018.00 Civic Amenity Site Re- Engineering (Design Phase) 1 April 2004 31 March 2005 
			
			 Hillingdon LB LASU DCS HWRCs 16,481.00 Civic Amenity Site Re- Engineering (Design Phase) 1 April 2005 31 March 2006 
		
	
	LASU DCS stands for Local Authority Support, Direct Consultancy Support which is not direct funding but the equivalent value in consultancy services.

Recycling

Paul Keetch: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will introduce legislation which would require commercial companies to recycle their own waste products.

Ben Bradshaw: There is no planned legislation but there are existing regulations on producer responsibility. Producer responsibility is aimed and ensures that businesses who place products on the market take responsibility for those products once they have reached the end of their life.
	The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2005 are intended to increase the recovery and recycling of packaging waste. While the regulations do not specifically require businesses to recycle their own packaging waste, those that do send their packaging waste to an accredited reprocessor, can if they wish, offset this tonnage against their recovery and recycling obligations.
	The Government are currently considering introducing producer responsibility regulations for the collection and recycling of non-packaging farm plastics. Packaging plastics are already covered under the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2005.
	The End-of-Life Vehicles (ELV) (Producer Responsibility) Regulations 2005 require vehicle producers to meet recovery and recycling targets and ensure that vehicles are increasingly designed for recycling .
	The Government are in the process of transposing the EU Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive, which will make producers responsible for the collection, treatment and recycling of electrical products when they become waste. In addition to this, we expect an EU Directive on batteries to come into force by the middle of 2006 which, like the WEEE Directive, will make producers responsible for collection, treatment and recycling of batteries.
	The Government also has voluntary producer responsibility agreements with the Newspaper Publishers Association (NPA), Direct Marketing Association (DMA) and Periodical Publishers Association (PPA) to increase the recycling levels of newspaper, direct mail and magazines.

Recycling

Paul Keetch: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what percentage of waste was recycled in (a) Hereford and (b) Herefordshire in the last five years; and if she will make a statement.

Ben Bradshaw: Results for the unitary authority of Herefordshire for percentages of household waste recycled and composted over the last five available years are taken from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Audit Commission best value performance indicators.
	
		
			  2000–01 2001–02 2002–03 2003–04 2004–05 
		
		
			 BVPI 82a  
			 Household waste recycled(4) 10.8 8.1 10.3 13.6 15.0 
			   
			 BVPI 82b  
			 Household waste composted 2.1 4.4 5.1 5.9 6.7 
			 Total 12.9 12.5 15.4 19.5 21.7 
		
	
	(4) There was a change of definition to BVPI 82a in 2001–02, to exclude previously included materials, such as incineration residue and recycled rubble. Therefore a direct comparison cannot be made between 2000–01 and later years. As BVPI results are available at local authority level, results for Hereford are not available separately and are therefore included within the unitary authority of Herefordshire.

Rights of Way

Paddy Tipping: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many claims for a right of way for mechanically propelled vehicles on byways made after 19 May 2005 have been (a) determined successfully, (b) made subject to a definitive map modification order and (c) refused.

Jim Knight: holding answer 9 March 2006
	. We do not have the data on claims broken down at this level of detail. This information is held by local highway authorities, but it could be gathered only at a disproportionate cost.

Rural Payments Agency

Eric Pickles: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions she has had with the Rural Payments Agency on the efficiency and accuracy of its computer systems.

Jim Knight: The responsible Minister, Lord Bach, has regular meetings with senior officials of the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) to review progress on making payments under the Single Payment Scheme (SPS). All operational issues, for example resources, systems and business processes are discussed.
	RPA successfully met its target to achieve a reduction of 10 per cent. in the unit cost of administering Common Agricultural Policy payments by 2004–05. It has modernised its systems and processes to deliver the new SPS during 2005–06 and this investment will enable the delivery of further efficiencies in the coming years.

Rural Payments Agency

Eric Pickles: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what measures she intends to introduce to improve the efficiency of the Rural Payments Agency.

Jim Knight: The Rural Payments Agency successfully met its target to achieve a reduction of 10 per cent. in the unit cost of administering Common Agricultural Policy payments by 2004–05. It has modernised its systems and processes to deliver the new Single Payment Scheme during 2005–06 and this investment will enable the delivery of further efficiencies in the coming years.

Single Farm Payments

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how allowing a portion of their land to be used for leisure activities affects single farm payments to farmers.

Jim Knight: The impact of undertaking a non-agricultural activity on an individual farmer's payment under the SPS will depend on the length and type of the activity being undertaken. Updated guidance on this issue has been incorporated into section C of the 'Single Payment Scheme Handbook and Guidance for England 2006' which will be published very shortly. I will arrange for copies to be sent to the hon. Member and placed in the Libraries of the House.

SOLICITOR-GENERAL

Crown Prosecution Service

Mike Hancock: To ask the Solicitor-General what his policy is on declarations of interest by members of the Crown Prosecution Service; and if he will make a statement.

Mike O'Brien: The Crown Prosecution Service's policy on declarations of interests by member of its staff is set out in the Department's Personnel Management Manual which covers conduct and staff rules. The policy requires full disclosure of all interests. There is additional guidance for specific activities and functions including guidance for Board members and members of tender evaluation panels.

Rape

Ben Chapman: To ask the Solicitor-General what research he has commissioned on the effect on the number of successful prosecutions for rape of the provisions in the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1976 which granted anonymity prior to conviction for individuals who were the subject of allegations.

Paul Goggins: I have been asked to reply.
	There has been no Home Office research on this subject. The provisions in the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1976 which banned media identification of sex offence defendants was repealed by the Criminal Justice Act 1988. This was based on the Criminal Law Revision Committee's argument in its 1984 Sexual Offences report which was that there was no reason in principle for defendants in rape cases to be distinguished from those charged with other offences.

HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION

Television Sets

Jo Swinson: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission how many television sets are operationally available on the House of Commons Estate (a) in total, (b) in hon. Members' offices and (c) in each office building on the estate.

Nick Harvey: There are 1,515 television/annunciator sets operationally available on the House of Commons part of the parliamentary estate. Each office occupied by a Member has a TV set. The breakdown by building is as follows.
	
		
			 Building Number 
		
		
			 Palace of Westminster 655 
			 1 Parliament Street 63 
			 Derby Gate 169 
			 7 Millbank 98 
			 Norman Shaw North 146 
			 Norman Shaw South 101 
			 2 The Abbey Garden 17 
			 1 Canon Row 22 
			 Portcullis House 244

Travel Office

Andrew Dismore: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission if he will arrange for the House of Commons Travel Office to publish the email addresses of individual travel office staff on the parliamentary intranet.

Nick Harvey: The contact details of the Houses of Parliament Travel Office are listed on the parliamentary intranet for the convenience of Members and other users of the Office. A central email address (hoptravel@carlsonwagonlit.co.uk) is provided so that any queries received are picked up and distributed around the office. This ensures that, in the event that a consultant is absent from the office, no emails are missed or responses delayed. It also allows for work to be shared out evenly between the consultants.
	Travel Office staff are not on the parliamentary email system as they are not directly employed by Parliament, but by the contractor, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, which runs the Travel Office. We will look into the implications of setting up a parliamentary email address for the Travel Office.

EDUCATION AND SKILLS

Banding

Celia Barlow: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills which local education authorities use banding in allocating pupils for secondary education.

Jacqui Smith: We do not collect this information centrally. However, we know that banding is operated in:
	Lewisham—where all but one voluntary aided school use banding;
	Greenwich—where all community schools and one voluntary aided school use banding; and
	individual schools in Ealing, Hackney, Kensington and Chelsea, Kingston-upon-Hull, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, and Surrey.

Bradford Cathedral Community College

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what measures Bradford Cathedral community college is taking to raise its standards; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: Bradford Cathedral college currently has a tailored support package to secure further improvements in leadership and attainment. It will be replaced by Bradford academy in 2007 and this project is in the implementation stage. The academy is jointly sponsored by TOC H and the Church of England and will have a particular focus on citizenship and enterprise education. It will provide 1,150 school places including 250 for post-16 students. The academy will provide the opportunity to transform educational provision in a disadvantaged area which has suffered from low standards for too long.

Careers Advice

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what steps her Department is taking to provide careers advice for older workers looking to retrain.

Phil Hope: Older workers can access an integrated information and advice service on learning and work delivered by the Learning and Skills Council through the national learndirect telephone and on-line service, and 47 local nextstep partnerships The information service is freely available to adults of all ages; the more resource intensive advice service gives priority to those aged 50 and over without a first full level 2 qualification, since they are more likely to lack the skills foundation for sustainable employment and lifelong long learning.

Child Abuse

Diane Abbott: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether her Department has commissioned a report into the scale of alleged child abuse related to witchcraft practices.

Maria Eagle: In September 2005, the Department for Education and Skills commissioned a study to scope the problem of child abuse in England linked to belief in possession" or witchcraft", or in other ways related to particular spiritual or religious belief, and to consider the circumstances leading to such abuse and the common features between cases. The report of this study was submitted to the Department in January, and will be published when Ministers have considered its findings and recommendations.

Child Protection

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the Ofsted report into the Alcuin Independent school, Leeds, with particular reference to teachers working without criminal record checks.

Jacqui Smith: The Alcuin school was inspected by Ofsted, under Section 163 of the Education Act 2002, in December 2004. The inspection identified a number of regulatory failings which the school has rectified, including some cases where Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks had not been completed.

Child Protection

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what her policy is on teachers working without police record checks in (a) state and (b) private schools; and if she will make a statement.

Maria Eagle: We strongly recommend Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks are made as part of the appointment process on anybody who will be working in a maintained school, further education institution or LEA education service. The law already requires independent schools to make CRB checks on the suitability of staff to work with children prior to confirming their appointment.
	Safeguarding children in education" (September 2004) emphasises the wider responsibilities of employers, including adopting recruitment practices which involve scrutinising applicants, verifying any qualifications, obtaining references, checking previous job history, as well as checking List 99 and making a CRB check where appropriate.
	Changes announced recently by the Secretary of State will make a CRB check compulsory prior to appointment, or as soon as practicable after, for all new appointments to the maintained school workforce where the individual concerned has not worked in a school or institution within the further education sector for at least three months prior to the appointment. There is no requirement to obtain a CRB disclosure on existing staff. Employers will continue to have discretion to seek a disclosure where they have grounds for concern about the suitability of an existing member of staff.

Childcare Affordability Programme

Paul Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether she plans to extend the Childcare Affordability programme being piloted in London to other areas in England.

Beverley Hughes: The London Childcare Affordability Pilot programme is jointly funded by the London Development Agency (£22 million) and the DfES (£11 million) and will run from October 2005 to March 2008.
	The pilot is being evaluated carefully so that lessons can be learned about its effectiveness in order to inform thinking about how best to address in future problems of affordability of child care for lower income families. There has been no decision at present to extend funding to other areas. However, we recently announced the allocation of the Transformation Fund to every local authority. This will enable private and voluntary providers to improve levels of qualification among their staff while maintaining affordability for parents.

Children's Workforce Development Council

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will make a statement on the work of the Children's Workforce Development Council for England since April.

Beverley Hughes: CWDC was launched in April 2005 with an overall aim to build the very best work force for children, young people and families. Since its launch, CWDC has been making good progress in building their capacity to deliver on the challenges set out in the Every Child Matters: Change for Children programme. As part of this they have recruited a strong and committed board of employer and employee representatives from their sector.
	The first products of the council's early work will shortly appear. They will publish this month web-based advice for local planners on local work force strategies in support of their Children and Young People's plans. To complement this they will also offer local planners consultancy assistance.
	With the Training and Development Agency for Schools they are working up proposals for developing professional roles within the early years and child care sector, as part of the implementation of the Government's 10-year child care strategy. These proposals will be published in the new year.
	The council is also taking a leading role in the Children's Workforce Network, a partnership of sector skills councils and similar bodies responsible for work force development across the full range of children's services in early years, education, social care, youth work, playwork, youth justice and health. With partners in the network the council has begun work to review relevant national occupational standards to embed a common core of knowledge and skills for all those working with children, young people and families and to develop an integrated qualifications framework to support service improvement and career opportunities for individual workers.
	CWDC is working with other organisations and Government to review recruitment and training and work force roles in social care as part of the recently-established 'Options for Excellence' Board. An initial report is due in April 2006.
	CWDC is working with Government on its response to the Children's Workforce Strategy consultation, and will be commissioned to implement major parts of the strategy during 2006–07. The precise role which CWDC will play in implementing the CWS will be made clear in their Business plan for 2006–07 which is currently being developed.

Communication Aids

Laurence Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how much Government funding has been provided for communication aids projects in (a) England and (b) Gloucestershire in each of the last 10 years for which figures are available; how much will be made available in each of the next three years; and if she will make a statement.

Maria Eagle: holding answer 7 March 2006
	The Communication Aids Project (CAP) has received grant totalling £21 million, allocated as follows:
	
		
			 Financial years £ million 
		
		
			 2001–02 1.5 
			 2002–03 3.5 
			 2003–04 5 
			 2004–05 6 
			 2005–06 5 
		
	
	CAP, a DfES-funded initiative for school-age children, was created to supplement, not replace, provision made locally. The project, which has been successful, comes to an end in March 2006.
	Local service providers have a central role in meeting needs, including the needs of individuals with severely impaired communication. Where children are concerned, we would be looking to children's services, through children's trusts, to provide appropriate support and equipment to all disabled children.
	CAP did not operate on the basis of area allocations; referrals were made in relation to individual children. If an application was successful, assistive technology was provided to the individual child based on his or her particular needs, identified by means of a specialised assessment.
	During the lifetime of CAP, a total of 24 referrals were made in relation to children living in Gloucestershire. 20 of these received support geared to their individual needs.
	Information on application rates by area was contained in the independent evaluation of CAP, work undertaken by University College London in conjunction with the University of York. The report was published in October 2004 as DfES Research Report 580 and it confirmed that CAP had positive benefits for the children being assisted and those working with them.

Correspondence

Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills when she will reply to the letter to her dated 19 January 2006 from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton, with regard to Labour party branches.

Jacqui Smith: I responded to my right hon. Friend's letter on 1 March.

Correspondence

Alan Beith: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills when the Minister of State for Schools and 14 to 19 Learners will reply to the correspondence from the right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed dated 15 September 2005 relating to education maintenance allowance; and what the reasons are for the delay in replying.

Maria Eagle: I responded to the right hon. Member's letter on 27 February.

Departmental Telephone Numbers

Anne Milton: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will list the (a) 0800, (b) 0845 and (c) 0870 telephone numbers for the public administered by (i) her Department and (ii) agencies which report to her.

Maria Eagle: The Department for Education and Skills employs a number of 0800, 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers for the public as follows (number of lines in brackets):
	0800
	Aim Higher Helpline (1)
	Career Development Loans (1)
	Education Maintenance Allowance (3)
	Learning Journey (1)
	Schools for Life : Get on Campaign Line (1)
	Small Firms Training Scheme (1)
	Star Award Helpline (1)
	Student Support Information Line (1)
	0845
	Publications Helpline (1)
	Publications Shopping Cart Registration (1)
	Headship Information Line (1)
	Schools On-line Technical Helpline (1)
	Student Finance Direct Customer Support (1)
	0870
	Main DfES Switchboard Number (1)
	Public Communications Unit (PCU) (1)
	Office of the Schools Adjudicator (OSA) (1)
	Special Educational Needs Tribunal (SEN Tribunal) (5)
	EDUBASE (Provision of schools data to the public) (1)
	Write Here Write Now (1)

Devolution

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what her policy is with regard to (a) Ministers and (b) officials in her Department giving evidence to the (i) Scottish Parliament, (ii) National Assembly for Wales and (iii) Northern Ireland Assembly committees; and to what categories of document she gives (A) full access, (B) restricted access and (C) no access to the (1) Scottish Parliament, (2) National Assembly for Wales, (3) Northern Ireland Assembly and (4) House of Commons Select Committees.

Bill Rammell: Requests for the attendance of Ministers or officials to give evidence to the devolved legislatures, and for the provision of information to the assemblies, will be considered on a case-by-case basis. This consideration will reflect: the principles set out in the Cabinet Office guidance 'Departmental Evidence and Response to Select Committees' (July 2005); the policy outlined in the Department for Constitutional Affairs' Devolution Guidance Note #12 'Attendance of UK Ministers and Officials at Committees of the devolved legislatures'; and the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act. The principles underlying the provision of information to House of Commons Select Committees are set out in 'Departmental Evidence and Response to Select Committees', particularly sections 4B and 4C.

Education (Peterborough)

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many schools in the (a) primary school and (b) secondary school sector in the Peterborough local education authority area have disapplied the National Curriculum (i) in respect of specific purposes in Key Stage 4 under section 91 of the Education Act 2002, (ii) through a statement of education need and (iii) for a temporary period under section 93 of the Education Act 2002 in the last five years; and how many pupils were affected in each year.

Jacqui Smith: The Department does not hold records of how many primary and secondary schools have disapplied the National Curriculum in respect of specific purposes in Key Stage 4 under section 91 of the Education Act 2002, through a statement of education need or for a temporary period under section 93 of the Education Act 2002.
	The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) were required to monitor the use of the Key Stage 4 disapplication regulations, under section 91 of the Education Act 2002, in secondary schools up until September 2002 when this requirement was withdrawn in order to simplify the arrangements and reduce the administrative burden for schools. The last year of monitoring was 2000–01 and QCA's records show that five secondary schools in the Peterborough local education authority area used the regulations for a total of 179 pupils. The total number of secondary schools in England that used the Key Stage 4 regulations in that academic year was 1,292, affecting 55,787 pupils.

Education Maintenance Allowance

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if her Department will revise the education maintenance allowance criteria to include students who are an academic year in advance of their peers.

Maria Eagle: We do not currently have any plans to revise the EMA criteria to include young people who are required to be in compulsory education. The purpose of the education maintenance allowance (EMA), is to provide an incentive to engage young people aged 16 to 18 in learning.
	EMA is not based on the academic level a pupil reaches. It is targeted at those who have reached the end of their compulsory education, who have the option of dropping out of learning. People under the age of 16 are required to be in compulsory education.

Education Maintenance Allowance

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many students under the age of 16 years who have entered further education a year in advance have (a) applied for and (b) been granted the education maintenance allowance.

Maria Eagle: The Learning and Skills Council (LSC), which is responsible for the operation of the education maintenance allowance (EMA), has provided information that 2,251 learners under the age of 16 applied for EMA during the academic year 2004/05 and 341 applied in the academic year 2005/06. None of these young people have received EMA as it is not available to young people who are required to be in compulsory education. We are not able to confirm how many of these young people entered further education because the level of study is not known at the point of application.

Education Maintenance Allowance

Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what account is taken in the administration of educational maintenance allowances of the circumstances which might lead to absences from school or college, with particular reference to young carers.

Maria Eagle: Operational responsibility for education maintenance allowance (EMA) transferred from DfES to the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) on 1 April 2005. LSC have provided the following response to clarify the procedures in place to manage EMA payments when learners are absent:
	In general a student should only be paid when they have attended all the sessions for which they are required for EMA purposes, and will not receive a weekly payment if they fail to attend. However, it is acceptable for a school or college to deem an absence to be authorised.
	The institution decides which absences are acceptable, taking into account guidance provided by the LSC.
	There are many legitimate reasons for absence including the need to look after a family member or another person for whom the student has caring responsibilities.

Education Provision (Hendon)

Andrew Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many students in Hendon receive the education maintenance allowance; and if she will make a statement.

Maria Eagle: This is a matter for the Learning and Skills Council, who operate education maintenance allowances for the DfES and hold the information about take-up of the scheme. Mark Haysom, the Council's Chief Executive, has written to my hon. Friend with the information requested and a copy of his reply will be placed in the Library.
	Letter from Mark Haysom, dated 9 March 2006
	I am writing in response to your Parliamentary Question that asked how many students in Hendon receive Education Maintenance Allowance.
	Information on the number of young people who have applied, enrolled and received EMA is available at Local Education Authority (LEA) level, but not at constituency level. By the end of January 2006, 2,020 young people in the Barnet LEA area had received one or more EMA payments in the academic year 2005/06.
	I hope this information is helpful and addresses your question. If you would like further details please contact Sharon Holmes at the LSC National Office on 0114 207 4567 or sharon.holmes@ lsc.gov.uk.

Education Provision (Hendon)

Andrew Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  how many school support staff (a) there are in Hendon schools and (b) there were in 1997; and if she will make a statement;
	(2)  how many (a) teachers and (b) teaching assistants there were in Hendon schools in (i) 2005 and (ii) 1997; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: The following table provides the full-time equivalent number of teachers, teaching assistants and other support staff in maintained schools in Hendon constituency, in January 2005 and 1997.
	
		Full-time equivalent number of teachers, teaching assistants and other support staff in maintained schools in Hendon constituency in January 2005 and 1997
		
			  1997 2005 
		
		
			 Teachers 980 970 
			 Teaching assistants 90 340 
			 Other support staff 200 230 
		
	
	Note:
	Figures are rounded to the nearest 10.
	Source:
	Annual School Census

Education Provision (Hendon)

Andrew Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many schools in (a) Hendon and (b) Barnet were in (i) special measures and (ii) other categories of concern in (A) 2005 and (B) 1997; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: Details of the total number of schools in Barnet local authority which were in Ofsted categories of cause for concern at the end of the academic years 1996/97 and 2004/05 are set out in the following table. The figures in brackets show the number of schools in a category in the Hendon constituency.
	
		Total Barnet (Hendon)
		
			 End of academic year Special measures Serious weaknesses Underachieving Inadequate 6th form 
		
		
			 1996/97 0 n/a n/a n/a 
			 2004/05 4(1) 1(1) 1(0) 0 
		
	
	The statutory categorisation of Serious Weaknesses was introduced in September 1997 and that of Inadequate 6th Form in September 2001; underachieving was an Ofsted administrative category. All three of these categorisations were replaced from September 2005 by a new statutory category of a school requiring significant improvement.
	Currently there is one school in Barnet which is subject to special measures (this is not in the Hendon constituency); and a further two schools require significant improvement, including one in Hendon. Proposals in the current Education Bill will ensure that swifter action is taken by local authorities to turn round schools which fail an Ofsted inspection.

Education Provision (Hendon)

Andrew Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  what percentage of 14-year-olds in Hendon reached the required standards in English and mathematics in (a) 2005 and (b) 1997; and if she will make a statement;
	(2)  what percentage of children in primary schools in Hendon reached the required standard in mathematics, English and science in (a) 2005 and (b) 1997; and if she will make a statement;
	(3)  if she will make a statement on the A and AS-level results in Hendon in (a) 2005 and (b) 1997;
	(4)  what percentage of secondary school students in Hendon achieved five or more GCSEs at grades A*-C in (a) 2005 and (b) 1997; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: Pupils nationally have made excellent progress since 1997. At Key Stage 2 there has been a 16 percentage point improvement in English and a 13 percentage point improvement in mathematics up to 2005. The improvement in the proportion of 15-year-olds achieving five A*-C grades at GCSE and equivalents has been 11 percentage points. At Key Stage 3, there have been improvements in the core subjects of English, mathematics, science and ICT. The 2005 provisional results show increases of 17, 14, 10, and 19 percentage points respectively since 1997.
	These improvements flow directly from the success of our National Strategies. At primary level the introduction of the daily literacy and mathematics hours mean that compared with 1997, 84,000 more 11-year-olds left school in 2005 with the necessary basic skills in reading, writing and numeracy. In the four years since the introduction of the Key Stage 3 strategy, now extended to the Secondary National Strategy, the model of support and challenge for teachers has been very effective. The Strategy has made great gains in improving the life chances of 14-year-olds—the greatest improvements have been in the areas of highest deprivation. Last year's results mean that approximately 103,000 more 14-year-olds achieved the target level for their age in English and 86,000 more did so in mathematics, than in 1997.
	The proportion of 11 and 14-year-old pupils achieving the expected levels in English and mathematics and the GCSE and equivalent achievements of young people, in 1997 and the latest available year, in the Hendon constituency are available on the 'In Your Area' website at http://www.dfes.gov.uk/inyourarea/. 2005 figures are not yet available at constituency level for 14-year-olds but will be published on the 'In Your Area' website shortly.
	The 'In Your Area' website does not hold information relating to the achievements of 11-year-old pupils in science or the A/AS-level results by constituency. This information is given in the following tables.
	
		Proportion of pupils achieving level 4 or more, in KS2 science in Hendon 1997 and 2005 -- Percentage pupils achieving level 4 or more
		
			 Science Hendon England 
		
		
			 1997 68 69 
			 2005 87 86 
			 Percentage point difference 19 17 
		
	
	
		The average point score per candidate and per examination entry for 16 to 18-year-old A-level candidates in Hendon 1997 and 2005
		
			 Average point score Hendon England 
		
		
			 1997(5)   
			 Per candidate 15.8 17.3 
			 Per examination 5.4 5.3 
			
			 2005(6)   
			 Per candidate 281.3 277.6 
			 Per examination 84.7 79.9 
		
	
	(5) 1997 figures for average A-level point score include GCE A and AS qualifications.
	(6) 2005 figures include GCE/VCE A/AS and VCE Double Award qualifications as well as Key Skills at Level 3 achievements by A-level candidates.
	This information is consistent with that published in the School and College Achievement and Attainment Tables (formerly Performance Tables) in 1997 and in 2005. The points awarded for A-level grades in those years are given as follows:
	
		
			 Grade 1997 2005 
		
		
			 A 10 120 
			 B 8 100 
			 C 6 80 
			 D 4 60 
			 E 2 40

Education Provision (Hendon)

Andrew Dismore: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many children there were on average in infant classes in Hendon in (a) 2005 and (b) 1997; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: The information requested has been placed in the Library.
	Legislation limits infant class size to a maximum of 30 pupils to a school teacher. The statistics show that since 1997 there has been a decrease in the average size of infant classes in Hendon and across England as a whole.
	Data on infant class sizes at national, local authority and parliamentary constituency level can also be found at the following link: Schools and Pupils in England: January 2005 (Final) in the additional information" sections 4 and 5.

Equal Opportunities

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether trust schools will be expected to comply with the Equal Opportunities Commission and Relationship Education Guidance 2000.

Jacqui Smith: Like other maintained schools, Trust schools will be required to operate within the law and comply with current legislation including the Sex Discrimination and Equal Pay Acts, the Race Relations Act and the Disability Discrimination Act.
	Trust schools will need to meet the requirements for sex education as set out in the science national curriculum. They will also be required to have regard to the guidance on sex and relationship education issued by the Secretary of State when determining their sex education policy. Beyond this, trust schools will be free to use the non-statutory framework for personal, social and health education to develop their programmes further taking into account the views of parents and the needs of pupils.

Foreign Postgraduate Students

John Hayes: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many students from (a) Iran, (b) Burma, (c) China, (d) Sudan, (e) North Korea and (f) Syria are undertaking postgraduate research in (i) nuclear physics, (ii) biology, (iii) chemistry and (iv) dispersal effects; what courses such students are undertaking; and if she will make a statement.

Bill Rammell: The latest information is given in the following table:
	
		Postgraduate research enrolments, by subject and domicile, at UK higher education institutions 2004–05
		
			 Subject(7) Iran Burma China Sudan North Korea Syria 
		
		
			 Biology 15 0 55 (11)— 0 5 
			 Chemistry 15 (11)— 200 (11)— (11)— 5 
			 Physics2, 3 15 0 80 5 0 5 
			 Chemical process and energy engineering3, 4 30 0 85 (11)— 0 5 
		
	
	(7) Dispersal effects is not separately identified in the JACS course classification.
	(8) Includes nuclear and particle physics".
	(9) Individual courses within these groups cannot be consistently identified separately.
	(10) Includes atomic engineering" and nuclear engineering".
	(11) Denotes a number less than 3.
	Note:
	Figures are rounded to the nearest 5.
	Source:
	Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) student record.
	The student Voluntary Vetting Scheme has been in operation since 1994. Its guiding principle is to prevent academic contact and access to postgraduate studies that might be of significant value to the Weapons of Mass Destruction programmes in countries of WMD proliferation concern. Students at postgraduate level from Burma, China and Sudan are not subject to the Voluntary Vetting Scheme provisions as they currently operate.

Head Teachers

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many vacancies there were for headteacher positions in (a) Lancashire and (b) West Lancashire constituency in each year since 1997.

Jacqui Smith: The following table gives the number of full-time head teacher vacancies in maintained schools in Lancashire local authority and in England, in each year, January 1997 to 2005, the latest information available.
	Information on teacher vacancies is not available at constituency level.
	
		Full-time head teacher vacancies(12) in maintained nursery, primary, secondary and special schools in Lancashire local authority and in England, January 1997 to 2005
		
			  Local authority 
			  Former Lancashire(13) Lancashire (post 1 April 1998) England 
		
		
			 1997(13)
			 Vacancies 14 — 180 
			 1998
			 Vacancies 8 — 250 
			 1999
			 Vacancies — 9 250 
			 2000
			 Vacancies — 3 230 
			 2001
			 Vacancies — 13 190 
			 2002
			 Vacancies — 3 170 
			 2003
			 Vacancies — 1 130 
			 2004
			 Vacancies — 4 120 
			 2005
			 Vacancies — 6 170 
		
	
	(12) Advertised vacancies for permanent appointments (or appointments of at least one term's duration). Posts filled by somebody on a contract of a term or more are not counted as being vacant.
	(13) In April 1998 Lancashire was reorganised into three authorities, Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool. Information on temporarily filled posts were not collected before 1998.
	Figures for England are rounded to the nearest 10.
	Source:
	Survey of teachers in service and teacher vacancies, 618g.

Higher Education

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many under 25s entered higher education in each year since 1990, broken down by socio-economic group; what proportion of the total number of 19 to 25-year-olds this represented in each group in each year; and if she will make a statement on the trends in the proportion of students from low income groups attending university.

Bill Rammell: Information on the social background of students obtaining places on full-time undergraduate courses in the UK has been published by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) since 1994, and the figures for under 25-year-olds are shown in the following table. Comparable figures for earlier years are not held centrally. The figures are limited to students who applied to full-time undergraduate courses via UCAS, and they do not therefore cover part-time students nor those full-time students who apply directly to Higher Education Institutions.
	
		UK-domiciled students aged under 25 accepted onto full-time higher education courses via UCAS, broken down by social class
		
			   Year of entry 
			   1994 1995 1996 1997 
		
		
			  Total accepted students 218,680 230,140 233,640 265,330 
			  Of which: 
			 I Professional 34,685 35,770 36,605 38,245 
			 II Intermediate 90,810 93,075 94,915 106,450 
			 IIIN Skilled non-manual 25,440 26,010 26,530 30,600 
			 IIIM Skilled Manual 34,810 36,785 36,095 40,215 
			 IV Partly skilled 15,845 16,800 17,015 19,785 
			 V Unskilled 3,790 4,255 4,280 4,940 
			  Not known 13,300 17,445 18,200 25095 
			   
			  Percentage from(14): 
			 I Professional 16.9 16.8 17.0 15.9 
			 II Intermediate 44.2 43.8 44.1 44.3 
			 IIIN Skilled non-manual 12.4 12.2 12.3 12.7 
			 IIIM Skilled manual 16.9 17.3 16.8 16.7 
			 IV Partly skilled 7.7 7.9 7.9 8.2 
			 V Unskilled 1.8 2.0 2.0 2.1 
		
	
	
		
			   Year of entry 
			   1998 1999 2000 2001 
		
		
			  Total accepted students 265,435 271,430 277,435 292,310 
			  Of which: 
			 I Professional 37,340 37,855 37,965 38,780 
			 II Intermediate 106,430 107,170 109,210 112,000 
			 IIIN Skilled non-manual 30,100 31,180 32,615 33,390 
			 IIIM Skilled manual 40,330 41,035 40,955 44,735 
			 IV Partly skilled 19,495 19,920 10,840 19,695 
			 V Unskilled 4,775 5,000 5,070 5,170 
			  Not known 26,965 29,270 30,780 38,535 
			   
			  Percentage from(14): 
			 I Professional 15.7 15.6 15.4 15.3 
			 II Intermediate 44.6 44.3 44.3 44.1 
			 IIIN Skilled non-manual 12.6 12.9 13.2 13.2 
			 IIIM Skilled Manual 16.9 16.9 16.6 17.6 
			 IV Partly skilled 8.2 8.2 8.4 7.8 
			 V Unskilled 2.0 2.1 2.1 2.0 
		
	
	(14) Percentages are based on students who provided details of their background.
	Source:
	UCAS.
	
		UK-domiciled students aged under 25 accepted onto full-time higher education courses via UCAS, broken down by socio-economic group(15)
		
			   Year of entry 
			   2002 2003 2004 2005 
		
		
			  Total accepted students 297,580 298,900 299,840 323,380 
			  Of which: 
			 1. Higher managerial and professional 59,570 57,410 57,780 57,705 
			 2. Lower managerial and professional 77,605 77,070 78,475 80,525 
			 3. Intermediate 36,945 35,370 35,750 36,975 
			 4. Small employers and own account workers 18,950 18,885 18,910 19,570 
			 5. Lower supervisory and technical 12,215 12,890 12,572 12,980 
			 6. Semi-routine 29,935 30,350 30,494 33,495 
			 7. Routine 14,345 13,810 13,934 14,665 
			 8. Not known 48,025 53,115 51,930 67,510 
			   
			  Percentage from(16): 
			 1. Higher managerial and professional 23.9 23.4 23.3 22.6 
			 2. Lower managerial and professional 31.1 31.4 31.7 31.5 
			 3. Intermediate 14.8 14.4 14.4 14.5 
			 4. Small employers and own account workers 7.6 7.7 7.6 7.6 
			 5. Lower supervisory and technical 4.9 5.2 5.1 5.1 
			 6. Semi-routine 12.0 12.3 12.3 13.1 
			 7. Routine 5.7 5.6 5.6 5.7 
		
	
	(15) The socio-economic classification was introduced in 2002/03 to replace the social class categories. The two classifications are not directly comparable.
	(16) Percentages are based on students who provided details of their background.
	Note:
	Numbers are rounded to the nearest five and percentages are rounded to one decimal place, so components may not sum to totals.
	Source:
	UCAS
	In the past few years, we have seen a steady widening of participation in higher education. Performance indicators published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency show that the proportion of students from non-traditional backgrounds has increased across a range of measures. The proportion from low participation neighbourhoods, for example, rose from 12.1 per cent. to 13.9 per cent. between 1997/98 and 2003/04, the latest year for which figures are available.
	
		Proportion of young (under 21) UK domiciled entrants to full-time first degree courses at UK HEIs
		
			  Proportion of entrants to higher education from: 
			  State schools Lower social classes (IIIM, IV, V) Lower Socio-economic groups (4–7) Low participation areas 
		
		
			 1997/98 81.8 24.9 n/a 12.1 
			 1998/99 85.0 25.1 n/a 12.3 
			 1999/2000 84.9 25.3 n/a 12.4 
			 2000/01 85.7 25.4 n/a 12.5 
			 2001/02 86.0 25.8 n/a 13.1 
			 2002/03 87.2 n/a 28.4 13.3 
			 2003/04 86.8 n/a 28.6 13.9 
		
	
	Source:
	Performance Indicators in Higher Education, n/a = not available. The socio-economic group classification was introduced in 2002/03 to replace the social class groupings. The two classifications are not directly comparable.
	We believe that more people with the potential to benefit from higher education should have the opportunity to do so. Higher education leads to a range of benefits, not only higher earnings but reduced crime, better health, and wider social capital benefits. The new student support arrangements offer a better deal for students from poorer backgrounds. We have reintroduced grants for those from low income households; we have ended up front fees; and we have introduced the Office for Fair Access so that universities have agreements on outreach and funding help that they will offer poorer students. £300 million is being offered in bursaries and other financial support. Alongside this, the Government and its partners support the Aimhigher programme, which enables partnerships of schools, colleges and universities to design and deliver a range of aspiration and attainment raising activities to enable young people from backgrounds currently under-represented in higher education to be able and willing to go on to HE. We are also determined to improve educational attainment so that more people are in a position to benefit from HE. Our proposals in the Schools White Paper, which is now the basis for The Education and Inspections Bill 2006, will help ensure that every young person has the opportunity to reach their potential, including, where appropriate, university education.

International Baccalaureate

Nick Gibb: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many maintained schools offered the International Baccalaureate in each year since 1996.

Jacqui Smith: The information on number of pupils by their course of study is derived from Annual Schools Census returns made by schools to the Department in January each year. Due to underlying changes in the data collection the number of maintained schools offering the International Baccalaureate is not available prior to 2002.
	The following table shows the number of maintained schools offering the International Baccalaureate Courses from 2002 to 2005 and the number of pupils taking the qualification.
	
		Maintained secondary schools—numbers taking International Baccalaureate courses1position as at January 2002 to 2005
		
			  Number of schools with pupils taking International Baccalaureate Number of pupils taking International Baccalaureate 
		
		
			 2002(18) 9 537 
			 2003(19) 17 992 
			 2004(19) 21 1,315 
			 2005(19) 34 1,209 
		
	
	(17) Includes solely registered pupils only. A solely registered pupil is one who has a single registration at one school.
	(18) Pupils aged 16 or over only.
	(19) Pupils in National Curriculum years 12, 13 and 14 only.

Media Training

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how much has been spent by her Department on media training in each year since 1997–98.

Maria Eagle: We do not hold information centrally on any media training undertaken by officials and would be able to collect it only at a disproportionate cost.

Multi-sensory Rooms

Ben Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many multi-sensory rooms for people with learning difficulties are provided by Lancashire county council.

Maria Eagle: The decision on the placement of such facilities has to be taken locally, based on local assessments of need. In view of this my Department does not routinely collect such detailed information. My officials therefore contacted Lancashire county council, to whom I am grateful for the following information.
	With regard to disabled children and young people, I understand that more than half of the 32 special schools in Lancashire have multi-sensory rooms. 16 of these schools are for children with the most severe and complex disabilities and 15 of these have sensory rooms, with plans to provide this resource to the remaining special school without the facility.
	With regard to disabled adults, I understand there are 18 specialist day centres for adults with learning disabilities. Approximately two thirds of these have some multi-sensory resources, mainly in a dedicated room.

Overseas Students

Ashok Kumar: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, what proportion of overseas students studying in further education institutions in England are from India.

Bill Rammell: Pursuant to the answer of 6 February 2006, Official Report, column 1015W, I am providing an amended response.
	Defining for this purpose home learners as those whose country of domicile is England then there were a total of 91,260 overseas students in further education institutions in England in 2004/05. Of these, 2,930 were from India which represents 3.2 per cent. of the total.

Power to Innovate Programme

David Gauke: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills which regulatory requirements have been lifted from specific schools for a time- limited period pursuant to the Power to Innovate programme.

Jacqui Smith: A list of the regulatory requirements that have been lifted from specific schools as a result of Power to Innovate Orders can be found in the first three annual reports to Parliament (available in the Library).
	In addition, two Orders have been made since publication of the latest annual report. These have enabled the following schools exemption from the following regulations:
	Education (School Organisation Proposals) Regulations 1999
	Enabling the following schools to extend the upper age limit for pupils;
	Walworth School, Southwark, London
	Waverley School, Southwark, London
	Kingsdale Secondary School, Southwark London
	School and Aylwin Girls' School, Southwark, London
	New Schools (General) (England) Regulations 2003
	Enabling the governing body of the following school to alter its governance composition;
	Haringey Sixth Form Centre, London

Press Complaints

Gordon Prentice: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills on how many occasions since 1 April 2003 she has complained to the Press Complaints Commission about the coverage in the press of (a) Ministers or officials and (b) her Department; and how many of these complaints were upheld.

Bill Rammell: The Department has not made any complaints to the PCC during the period specified.

Publication Pulping

John Hayes: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will list the publications identified as pulped in quantity on page 62 of her Department's resource accounts; how many of each publication were pulped; what was the face value of each pulped publication; and what the cost was of disposal.

Bill Rammell: Listed as follows are the publications, number of each publication item, and the replacement unit cost. The cost of disposal was £9,000, recovered within two months by savings in storage. The cost of pulping was off-set by the sell-on of recycled paper.
	
		
			  Title Number Pulped Unit replacement cost (£) 
		
		
			 Framework for teaching mathematics Years 7, 8 and 9 60,882 1.30 
			 Framework for teaching Science Years 7, 8 and 9 69,929 1.30 
			 Framework for teaching English Years 7, 8 and 9 66,168 1.30 
			 Numeracy across the curriculum—support materials 26,765 3.12 
			 Framework for teaching ICT capability Years 7, 8 and 9 36,724 1.30 
			 Introducing the third year 8,137 3.12 
			 The learning challenge 30,859 1.20 
			 Numeracy across the curriculum—notes for school based training 17,563 3.12 
			 National Strategy Springboard 7 5,163 1.30 
			 Targeting level 4 in Year 7 English consolidation lessons 19,764 1.30 
			 Literacy across the curriculum 9,931 1.30 
			 Assessment in mathematics toolkit to support pupils for whom English is an additional language 10,612 1.20 
			 English department training 5,889 1.20

Religious Education

Graham Allen: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many city academies are obliged by their agreements to follow the locally agreed syllabus for religious education; and what agreement has been made concerning the teaching of religious education in those academies that are not required to do so.

Jacqui Smith: Religious education must be taught at academies and assessed to at least key stage 3. There are currently 19 academies which are not designated as having a religious character. According to their funding agreements, their religious education syllabus should mirror that of maintained schools in reflecting that the religious traditions in Great Britain are in the main Christian. They must also take into account the teaching and practices of the other principal religions represented in Great Britain. Such a syllabus however cannot be taught in a manner distinctive of a particular religion. In the main religious education taught in academies which are not designated as having a religious character follows the locally agreed syllabus.
	There are currently eight academies which are designated as having a religious character. Under their funding agreements, the academies must provide religious education to all pupils at the academy in accordance with the tenets of that school's specified religion.

School Admissions Code

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether the reference to the code for school admissions in Clause 37 of the Education and Inspections Bill refers to the version of the code contained in the draft School Admissions Code of Practice 2005.

Jacqui Smith: Clause 37 does not refer to the draft Code of Practice that was circulated for consultation in July 2005. We decided not to lay this code, as I announced on 13 December.
	This clause amends current legislation to ensure that in future the code will have greater force. Admission authorities will have to act in accordance" with the new code rather than have regard" to its provisions. As a result of this, and to reflect other changes in the Bill, a revised School Admissions Code will be drafted and consulted on, before being laid before Parliament.

School Leavers (Qualifications)

Nick Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many people left school at 16 years of age in (a) the constituency of Ruislip-Northwood, (b) Hillingdon local education authority, (c) Greater London and (d) England with less than the equivalent of five GCSE A-C grades in each year since 1997.

Jacqui Smith: The information requested on the number of pupils 1 leaving school with less than five A*-C at GCSE and Equivalents 2 is found as follows:
	1 Number of pupils aged 15 at the start of the academic year.
	2 GCSE/GNVQs are included from 1998 to 2003 and GCSEs and equivalents approved for pre-16 use from 2004. Results include achievements of pupils in previous years.
	
		Pupils not achieving 5+ A*-C at GCSE and equivalent -- Number
		
			  Ruislip-Northwood(20) Hillingdon(20) Greater London(20) England(21) 
		
		
			 1998 379 1,383 37,944 308,779 
			 1999 372 1,409 37,320 302,412 
			 2000 326 1,304 36,032 294,657 
			 2001 365 1,393 36,926 301,701 
			 2002 369 1,408 35,533 293,815 
			 2003 350 1,400 34,920 292,740 
			 2004 335 1,529 34,533 297,767 
			 2005 341 1,451 32,687 278,383 
		
	
	
		Pupils not achieving 5+ A*-C at GCSE and equivalent -- Percentage
		
			  Ruislip-Northwood(20) Hillingdon(20) Greater London(20) England(21) 
		
		
			 1998 46.6 56.0 57.9 53.7 
			 1999 45.8 55.9 56.4 52.1 
			 2000 40.6 52.1 54.5 50.8 
			 2001 43.9 52.9 53.9 50.0 
			 2002 43.7 54.0 51.5 48.4 
			 2003 40.8 52.4 49.3 47.1 
			 2004 37.9 52.1 47.0 46.3 
			 2005 38.9 49.5 44.8 43.7 
		
	
	(20) Based on maintained sector schools only, this includes city technology colleges and academies but excludes hospital schools and pupil referral units.
	(21) Includes all schools.

School of Economic Science

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what recent assessment she has made of the influence of the School of Economic Science within (a) St. James' independent schools in London and (b) The Alcuin School in Leeds; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: We respect the right of parents to choose an independent school for their child, and recognise that they may want an education for their child which reflects their own religious or philosophical beliefs. All independent schools must be registered by my Department. In order to become and continue to be registered, they must reach and maintain a satisfactory standard in respect of the quality of education provided; the spiritual, moral, social and cultural developments of pupils; the welfare, health and safety of pupils; the premises and accommodation at the school; and the suitability of the proprietor and staff within the school.
	We understand that the St. James' independent schools and Alcuin school both follow a curriculum and spiritual programme in line with the aims and beliefs of the Schools of Economic Science, and this is recognised in the most recent published inspection reports which can be found at: http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/reports/index.cfm?fuseaction=listColleges&type=independent www.isinspect.org.uk/frreports.htm
	All these schools meet the regulatory requirements for continued registration as an independent school.

Schools (Railway Lines)

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what proportion of schools are located within a (a) one mile, (b) two mile and (c) three mile railway line corridor.

Jacqui Smith: holding answer 8 March 2006
	The Department does not hold the information required to answer this question and could source and produce the information only at disproportionate cost.

Secondary School Places (London)

Edward Davey: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills when she will publish the report of the London Secondary Schools Places Planning Project; and if she will make a statement.

Jacqui Smith: We are intending to publish the report on Secondary School Places Planning in London shortly.

Sex Offenders

Greg Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many teachers on the sex offenders list are working in (a) Kent and (b) the borough of Tunbridge Wells.

Ruth Kelly: My Department does not hold this information.

Sex Offenders

Andrew Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills pursuant to the answer of 13 February 2006, Official Report, column 1572W, on sex offenders, how many names were transferred to the Protection of Children Act list from the Consultancy Services Index at its inception.

Maria Eagle: 898 names were transferred to the Protection of Children Act List at its inception.

Skills Passport

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will make a statement on the Skills Passport scheme.

Phil Hope: Government commitment to develop and promote Skills Passports were announced in the 2004 pre-Budget report, Skills in the Global Economy" and the 2005 Skills White Paper, Skills: Getting on in business, getting on at work". We are taking these commitments forward in two ways:
	by working with the Sector Skills Development Agency, Sector Skills Councils, the Small Business Council and others, to develop Skills Passports that meet the needs of employers to recruit and develop people with the skills they require; and
	by testing out a Skills Passport in the Skills Coaching trials, to help benefit recipients improve their employability by identifying, developing and recording their skills and qualifications. Skills Passports form part of New Deal for Skills which is aimed at improving the skills of those people with lower level skills to help them secure sustainable employment, and improving the skills of employees to help them progress into higher skilled occupations.

Social Care Staff

Paul Burstow: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills pursuant to the answer of 8 November 2005, Official Report, column 463W, on social care staff, what arrangements have been made to collect information about the numbers of staff working for private and voluntary sector organisations.

Beverley Hughes: Skills for Care, as one of the two Sector Skills Council bodies for Social pare in England, is leading the development of work force intelligence across all areas of social care. This involves the development of a National Minimum Dataset for Social Care (NMDs-SC)—a set of questions about work force which aims to cover the 26,000 employers in social care—including those forming the majority of provision in the private sector as well as voluntary sector providers. Over the next 24–36 months, following trialling of data collection methods, workforce statistics on private and voluntary sector provision across adults' and children's services should start appearing.
	The Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC), the other Sector Skills Council body for social care in England, is currently in a transitional phase of gradually taking over responsibility for social care staff working with children. During this phase, the CWDC and the Department for Education and Skills will continue working with Skills for Care to ensure coverage of children's providers within the NMDs-SC.

Social Segregation Report

Paul Farrelly: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  when she plans to allow the authors of the study commissioned from the Institute of Education in London to publish their findings regarding social segregation in schools;
	(2)  when she plans (a) to publish the study commissioned from the Institute of Education in London in relation to social segregation in schools and (b) to respond to its findings.

Jacqui Smith: The Department has commissioned research from the Centre of Economics of Education (CEE) on this topic. The CEE is a consortium which includes the IoE, where this work has been conducted.
	Research work from the CEE on social segregation in schools will be published when it is complete.

St. James Independent School

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if she will meet the Parents and Pupils Inquiry Action Group from St. James' independent schools.

Jacqui Smith: The Department was made aware of an inquiry carried out at the request of governors of St. James by James Townend QC, following claims of excessive use of corporal punishment, physical and mental abuse against pupils and criminal assault by teachers in the period 1975 to 1985. The police have subsequently confirmed that they, social services, the NSPCC and Education Welfare have examined historic allegations relating events at the school during this period, and that the case is now closed.
	I commend the Governing Body for commissioning the inquiry, and their willingness to address these very difficult issues in such an open and transparent manner. However, the findings of the police and of the inquiry do not have any bearing on the conduct of the school at present, and I do not believe that a meeting with the Parents and Pupils Inquiry Action Group from St. James' independent schools would help me discharge my current regulatory obligations.

Trust School Status

Paul Farrelly: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills 
	(1)  what features of the proposed trust schools status will help raise standards at Wolstanton High School in Newcastle-under-Lyme;
	(2)  what features of the proposed new trust schools will help raise standards at Sir Thomas Boughey High School in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Jacqui Smith: Trusts will help create a long term, stable and sustainable relationship bringing in partners to support the school's governance and strategic direction with clear aims and outcomes agreed at the outset. A school can decide whether it wants to acquire a trust and whom they might want to work with. It will be easier to use the Power to Innovate, with the potential for flexibilities to be agreed centrally and made available to all schools supported by the trust.
	Specialist schools, such as Wolstanton High School and Sir Thomas Boughey High School, could join a network of schools working collaboratively to help raise standards and share best practice in a specialist subject. Schools will benefit from the different perspectives, experience and skills of different partners to provide opportunities for greater efficiency or workforce development. For example, they may like to work with a university or training provider as part of a trust to gain access to additional educational expertise or create links between staff and students that raise aspirations and motivate schools students.

TRANSPORT

A12

Simon Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport on whose authority road signs showing the turn offs to Writtle and Danbury on the A12 in the Chelmsford local authority area were removed; what the reasons were for the removal; and if he will make a statement.

Stephen Ladyman: Writtle has never been a destination signed from the A12 trunk road.
	The Highways Agency made the decision to remove Danbury local direction signs on the northbound A12, acting for the highway authority, the Secretary of State for Transport.
	A signing strategy for the A12 was discussed and agreed with Essex county council in 2003.
	A scheme to reduce accidents in the vicinity of the A12/A414 off slip, funded in this financial year, has provided the opportunity to review signing at this location and the Danbury sign was removed in line with the agreed strategy.
	Advice on signing of destinations is provided in Local Transport Note 1/94 Design and Use of Direction Informatory Signs". The Highways Agency provides enough information on signs to aid drivers, but not so much as might prove distracting to them. In addition, current standards require most street furniture and signposts to be protected by safety fencing to prevent strikes by errant vehicles. Safety fencing is expensive and there may be insufficient space in the highway verge to provide it, therefore the Highways Agency seeks to minimise the presence of street furniture for road safety and economy reasons.

A12

Simon Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what criteria were used to make the decision (a) to keep a road sign on the A12 in the Chelmsford local authority area showing the turn off to the Antiques Centre at Battlesbridge and (b) to remove road signs showing the turn offs to Writtle and Danbury; and if he will make a statement.

Stephen Ladyman: The sign for the Antique Centre at Battlesbridge will remain in place until such time as an improvement scheme is undertaken in the vicinity. At that time it will be reviewed under Departmental Standard TD 52/04 Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions and Facilities in England" or its successors, at which point it may be concluded that the sign be removed.
	Writtle has never been a destination signed from the A12 trunk road.
	Advice on direction signing is provided to the Highways Agency in Local Transport Note 1/94 Design and Use of Direction Informatory Signs". The Highways Agency provides enough information on signs to aid drivers, but not so much as might prove distracting to them. A signing strategy for the A12 was discussed and agreed with Essex county council in 2003, which excluded signing for Danbury.
	A scheme to reduce accidents in the vicinity of the A12/A414 off slip has provided the opportunity to review the signs on the northbound carriageway and the Danbury sign was removed.

Blue Badge Scheme

Paul Rowen: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the operation of the Blue Badge scheme and parking in loading bays.

Karen Buck: The Department for Transport's policy is to prohibit parking where there is a ban on loading or unloading.

British Transport Police

Si�n James: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many British Transport police officers are responsible for policing (a) Llansamlet railway station and (b) Swansea, East constituency.

Derek Twigg: The number of British Transport police officers who are responsible for policing Llansamlet railway station and the railways in Swansea, East constituency are 11 police officers in total. The total number includes one inspector, one sergeant, eight constables and one detective constable.

Coastal Protection

Andrew George: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport 
	(1)  what assessment he has made of Lord Donaldson's proposal to designate the coast around the Isles of Scilly as (a) a Marine Environmental High Risk Area and (b) an Area to be Avoided;
	(2)  what assessment he has made of the (a) voluntary and (b) statutory measures on the coast and coastal waters of (i) the Isles of Scilly and (ii) Cornwall on their capacity to provide protection for the coast and marine environment from (A) pollution and (B) the foundering and collision of cargo vessels.

Stephen Ladyman: Lord Donaldson said in his report Safer Ships, Cleaner Seas that the Scilly Isles were an obvious candidate for MEHRA status. However he made it clear that the actual decision on which areas would be MEHRAs must be founded on criteria, based on both shipping patterns and environmental importance. Lord Donaldson did not prejudge the outcome of this process.
	Lord Donaldson also said that there may be a case for an Area to be Avoided (ATBA) or ATBAs, although he appreciated there is a need for the approaches to ports to be left unobstructed. Again, Lord Donaldson did not prejudge the outcome of these deliberations.
	Building on Lord Donaldson's report, the Department for Transport and the Department of the Environment (now Defra) worked closely with Devolved Administrations and statutory nature conservation advisors to develop the process for identifying MEHRAs through a robust and objective methodology. This included a parallel assessment of pollution from shipping risk and environmental sensitivity. Other environmental protection measures already in place at each location were also taken into consideration.
	Lord Donaldson's recommendation that the criteria should be set in such a way that not more than about a tenth of the UK coastline qualifies was also taken into account. Consequently, in accordance with this principle and the methodology, only those areas which scored highly both in terms of environmental sensitivity and in terms of risk from shipping qualified as MEHRAs.
	The environmental sensitivity for the Isles of Scilly was not in question in this assessment. This is already acknowledged through existing protective measures that reduce the risks to such an extent that all the qualifying criteria for MEHRA status are not met.
	The proposal for an ATBA for the Isles of Scilly was discussed in detail at two UK Safety of Navigation (UKSON) Committee meetings. They decided that there was no evidence that existing routeing measures were ineffective and an ATBA would not necessarily enhance the measures currently in place.
	There are three traffic separation schemes, with associated inshore traffic zones, which have been adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in close proximity to the Isles of Scilly and Cornwall. These are:
	(1) West of the Scilly Isles
	(2) South of the Scilly Isles
	(3) Off Land's End, between Seven Stones and Longships.
	There is also an IMO-adopted Recommendation on Navigation off the Isles of Scilly which advises laden tankers over 10,000 gross tonnage using the traffic separation scheme between Land's End and the Isles of Scilly to keep at least three miles seaward of Wolf Rock and further advises such vessels not to use the scheme in restricted visibility or other adverse weather.
	Additionally, an IMO-adopted voluntary reporting scheme recommends that laden tankers using the Isles of Scilly route to report to Falmouth Coastguard when at least one hour from the Estimated Time of Arrival of entering the route and on final departure.
	If, despite the routeing measures which are in place, a maritime incident occurs in the waters around Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, there are a number of safeguards in place.
	A dedicated, Government-funded emergency towing vessel is on stand-by 24 hours a day, 365 days a year ready to respond to shipping incidents in the South Western approaches.
	The Secretary of State's Representative for Maritime Salvage and Intervention (SOSREP), provides overall command and control of operations during marine emergencies. The powers of direction invested in SOSREP are extensive and, as well as being an international first for the UK, the SOSREP role has proved very successful in a number of shipping incidents.
	The UK has a well developed National Contingency Plan for Marine Pollution from Shipping and Offshore Installations, which would be implemented in the event of a significant maritime incident (and it is worth noting that Cornwall county council has its own coastal counter pollution contingency plan which complements the National Contingency Plan).
	The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is well prepared to respond to a marine pollution incident. Counter pollution resources are stored on the Isles of Scilly and at Falmouth for response to small incidents. In the event of a larger incident, appropriate equipment from the major UK Counter Pollution stockpiles at Milford Haven, Huddersfield and Perth would be mobilised, and a sizeable stockpile of oil spill dispersants is located at Saltash. All counter pollution resources are maintained by private contractors, and strict contractual stipulations are in place for mobilisation anywhere within the UK within pre-determined timescales.

Concessionary Travel

Stephen Hammond: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how he will monitor the implementation of the bus concessionary fare scheme.

Karen Buck: The Department set up a working group to advise on and monitor the implementation of free local off-peak travel for older and disabled people. The group consists of representatives from local authorities and bus operators.

Concessionary Travel

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many (a) over 60-year-olds and (b) disabled people resident in West Lancashire will be eligible for the new concessionary travel scheme.

Karen Buck: The number of (a) residents aged 60 and over in the parliamentary constituency of West Lancashire who will be eligible for free concessionary local bus travel in April will be more than 17,000. In the district of West Lancashire, for which there are better estimates of population by age, 24,600 residents will be eligible. However, for (b) , the number of residents who are disabled is not known.

Concessionary Travel

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment his Department has made of whether private bus providers will need new technology to accommodate the new concessionary travel scheme.

Karen Buck: The Department set up the confessionary fare working group to advise on implementation. The group, which includes bus operator representatives, has not advised that new technology will be required.

Drink-driving

Brian H Donohoe: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps his Department is taking in relation to new vehicle technologies to reduce the number of people driving under the influence of alcohol.

Stephen Ladyman: We have made provision in the Road Safety Bill, which received its Second Reading in this House last week, to enable courts in certain circumstances to offer drink drive offenders the opportunity to participate in alcohol ignition interlock programmes.
	When fitted to a vehicle's ignition, these devices are designed to prevent the vehicle being driven until a specimen of breath has been given in which the proportion of alcohol does not exceed a specified amount.
	Experience in other countries has shown that ignition interlocks can be effective in reducing reoffending and have potential for reducing the number of drink-related collisions. However, before considering their introduction here, we have commissioned research into the acceptability and impact of ignition interlocks on drink drive offenders in this country and the practicalities of fitting, maintaining and monitoring the use of these devices. This is due to be completed by spring 2007.

European Rail Traffic Management

Chris Grayling: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to install the European Rail Traffic Management System on the rail network.

Derek Twigg: Network Rail is leading the cross-industry national ERTMS programme. A 60 million trial on the Cambrian Line has now reached the equipment tendering stage and is planned to be in service by the end of 2008. It will provide essential experience of delivering and operating a cab signalling system compliant with European standards.
	The Government have already introduced a different train protection system, train protection warning system (TPWS) that stops all trains passing a red light at up to 70mph. Also, a higher grade version, TPWS+, that stops trains passing red lights at up to 100mph, has been targeted for fitment by Network Rail at approximately 400 signals and is nearing completion.
	Further decisions on the scope and timing of ERTMS implementation will be taken by Network Rail in consultation with Government as part of the periodic review process following issue of the High Level Output Specification in 2007.

Government Car Service

Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what car has been made available to the Leader of the Opposition; how many hours a day a chauffeur is available to him; and what the monthly cost is of this provision; and how much is accounted for by (a) running costs of the vehicle, (b) costs of the chauffeur and (c) all other costs.

Karen Buck: The contracted cost for providing the Leader of the Opposition with an official car is 5,900 per month, excluding VAT. This includes: total car costs (including vehicle depreciation, maintenance and fuel costs) of 1,030; total driver costs of 3,391; and other costs amounting to 1,479. The Conservative Party pays for 25 per cent. of these costs. The car and driver is available for use for 70 hours each week, Monday to Friday.
	Guidance on the use of official cars is set out in the Ministerial Code and Travel by Ministers.

Irish Sea (Fixed Link Proposal)

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether he has discussed with the Irish Government the Irish Sea fixed link proposal.

Stephen Ladyman: The Irish Government has not contacted the Secretary of State with regard to an Irish Sea fixed link.

M18 (Cameras)

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport for what reason a number of high mounted cameras have been erected on the M18 motorway between junctions 1 and 2; whether these are expected to be permanent; and if he will make a statement.

Stephen Ladyman: A number of cameras have been erected on the M18 between Junctions 1 and 2 as part of the Junction 1 to Long Leys Lane resurfacing scheme. The cameras have been installed to monitor traffic through the roadworks. If a vehicle breaks down a free recovery service can respond quickly to minimise congestion while ensuring the safety of drivers and roadworkers. The cameras will be removed once the works have been completed.
	The Highways Agency has also installed a small number of permanent cameras around the M18 at Junction 1 as part of the new Traffic Officer Service launched in South Yorkshire on 1 February 2006. The cameras will help traffic officers monitor the network and target resources to minimise congestion and manage traffic flows to ensure traffic runs smoothly for both travellers and business.

Marine Environment

Julian Brazier: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what monitoring his Department will carry out to establish that management measures in marine environment high risk areas are delivering better protection for these areas.

Stephen Ladyman: The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has a comprehensive programme of monitoring discharges from ships in the UK Pollution Zone. Defra also monitors the environmental status of the UK's seas and coasts and the Department for Transport and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency will, of course, take account of any relevant developments reported by Defra.

Marine Environment

Julian Brazier: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether the future management of marine environment high risk areas will include (a) educating mariners on the sensitivity of these areas, (b) establishing set shipping routes with areas to be avoided and areas with mandatory pilotage, (c) provision of more salvage tugs at key points and (d) increased availability of oil pollution response equipment.

Stephen Ladyman: The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will be issuing a Marine Information Note to the attention of ships' masters to the establishment of the Marine Environmental High Risk Areas (MEHRAs). This will be followed in due course by a Marine Guidance Note which will provide guidance on where the areas are and their purpose.
	The MEHRAs document (to be found in the Library of the House and on the DfT website) sets out any current proposals for additional protective measures for each MEHRA. The need for any further measures will be considered in the light of wider marine policy developments.
	Emergency towing vessels are already located at strategic points around the UK coast. In addition, arrangements have been made by the MCA with towing firms to facilitate the provision of additional towing capability in the event of local emergencies requiring tug assistance under the Coastguard Agreement on Salvage and Towage. This gives coverage to the whole UK coast.
	There is no need to increase the availability of oil pollution response equipment. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency already has adequate stockpiles of oil spill response equipment which can be speedily mobilised and made available to any coastal location, as required.

Marine Environment

Julian Brazier: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the written statement of 13 February 2006, Official Report, columns 5859WS, on Marine Environment High Risk Areas, whether he will propose compulsory protective measures if the approach announced fails to deliver better protection for these areas; and what plans he has to consult interested parties on the measures he has announced.

Stephen Ladyman: The identification of Marine Environmental High Risk Areas (MEHRAs) is just one of a number of measures used to protect the UK coast from possible environmental impacts of shipping. These include improvements in the provision of Emergency Towing Vessels, and the mandatory reporting system for tankers carrying heavy grades of oil into the newly designated Western European Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA). The Government also take account of wider developments in UK policy on the sustainable use of the marine environment, such as the growth in offshore renewable energy, the Government's commitment to introducing a Marine Bill, developments in thinking on marine spatial planning and advances in e-navigation technology. The introduction of any additional protective measures for MEHRAs has to be considered as part of these wider, inter-linked developments.
	We will use the usual established consultative procedures when introducing any new protective measure.

Media Training

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much has been spent by his Department on media training in each year since 199798.

Karen Buck: The Department for Transport was formed in May 2002. In each of the financial years since, the central Department has spent the following amounts providing training in doing television and/or radio interviews for senior officials within the Department.
	
		
			 Financial year Amount spent () 
		
		
			 200203 1,998 
			 200304 2,233 
			 200405 8,695 
		
	
	The increase in more recent years is primarily due to training provided to senior inspectors at the Rail Accident Investigation Branch in preparation for the start of their operations in October 2005.

Public Transport (Late Night Services)

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will take steps to ensure that late night public transport for young people is available in Peterborough.

Karen Buck: Provision of public transport outside London is a matter for bus operators. Local authorities have powers to subsidise services which they deem socially necessary and are not provided on a commercial basis.

Regional Airports

Liam Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what economic modelling has been undertaken to assess the cost and benefit to regional economies of the development and expansion of regional airports.

Karen Buck: The regional consultation documents preceding the Air Transport White Paper in 2003 examined the economic costs and benefits of additional airport infrastructure at a range of airports. However, these were on the basis of benefits to airport users and of other benefits to the national economy, rather than in terms of benefits to individual regional economies.

Regional Airports

Graham Stringer: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many airlines have been given fifth freedoms since they became available from the UK's regional airports in October 2005.

Karen Buck: No foreign airline has been granted new rights to operate scheduled fifth freedom services from UK regional airports since the Government announced a relaxation of restrictions on such services in September 2005. However, some initial applications from foreign airlines have recently been submitted, and these are currently being considered by the Department.

Regional Transport Expenditure

Greg Knight: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what proportion of the transport budget for each region has been spent on (a) roads and (b) public transport in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement.

Karen Buck: holding answer 6 March 2006
	Individual regions did not have specific transport budgets during this period. However, details on overall transport spend for each region, based on certain assumptions as to how this should be attributed, can be found in chapter 8 of the Public Expenditure Statistical Analyses 2005published by HM Treasury, and available on their website at: http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/economic_ data_and_tools/finance_spending_satistics/pes_ publications/pespub_index.cfm.

Royal Family (UK Travel)

Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many publicly funded (a) helicopter and (b) train journeys within the UK were undertaken by each member of the Royal Family in each year since 2000.

Karen Buck: The costs of all official journeys by air or rail undertaken by members of the Royal Family are met by the grant-in-aid for Royal travel by air and rail. Details of journeys funded by the grant-in-aid are published annually in the Royal Household Report on the grant-in-aid. Copies of the reports are placed in the Library of the House.

Royal Family (UK Travel)

Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will take steps to encourage the Royal Family to reduce their use of helicopter travel for journeys within the UK.

Karen Buck: Helicopter travel enables members of the Royal Family to undertake a number of engagements at different locations on the same day. Since its introduction in 1998, the Royal helicopter has proved to be a highly efficient and cost-effective travel option. Without the availability of helicopter travel, the number of official engagements that members of the Royal Family would be able to undertake would be reduced. In 200405, members of the Royal Family undertook 2,400 official engagements in the UK. Accordingly there are no current plans to limit the use of helicopter travel.

Stretch Limousines

Graham Stringer: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to revise the regulations relating to stretch limousines to include vehicles carrying nine to 16 passengers.

Karen Buck: We have no plans to revise regulations. There is nothing stopping a stretch limousine that fully meets the safety and construction and use requirements from being licensed to carry nine to 16 passengers.

Transport Innovation

Paul Rowen: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many Transport Innovation bids have been received from the regions on (a) roads, (b) rail, (c) bus, (d) road pricing and (e) other matters; when he will announce the decision on allocations of funding; and if he will make a statement.

Karen Buck: The Transport Innovation Fund has two entry points: congestion and productivity. The process for bidding through both entry points is set out in Transport Innovation Fund: Guidance January 2006, copies of which have been placed in the Library. As yet there have been no congestion fund bids. There is no bidding process for the productivity part of the fund. We will be identifying a shortlist of potential candidates, against the criteria for productivity schemes set out in the guidance, and after seeking the views of the English Regional Development Agencies.
	We expect to make decisions on the allocation of both first round congestion and productivity funding towards the end of this year.
	I refer the hon. Member to the written statement given on 26 January 2006, Official Report, columns 6667WS by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport.

West Midlands PTA

John Spellar: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much bus subsidy has been provided in the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority area in each of the last 10 years.

Karen Buck: The following table shows the totals for the last nine years of expenditure by the West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority on support for bus services and re-imbursement of concessionary fares on local bus services. There is no comparable figure for 199596.
	
		
			  Bus subsidy ( million) 
		
		
			 199697 78.2 
			 199798 85.1 
			 199899 85.2 
			 19992000 88.0 
			 200001 89.0 
			 200102 94.4 
			 200203 84.2 
			 200304 79.4 
			 200405 72.5 
		
	
	Source:
	Local authority returns to ODPM, revenue outturn (RO2) data.
	In addition, operators of local bus services receive Bus Service Operators Grant from this Department. This is paid direct to operators and is not attributed to a specific area.

LEADER OF THE HOUSE

Parliamentary Pension Regulations

James McGovern: To ask the Leader of the House what steps have been taken to ensure the percentage abatement of pension entitlement outlined in the Parliamentary Pension Regulations is compliant with the EU directive on age discrimination, with particular reference to Regulation H1 and Schedule 4; and whether he has satisfied himself that the scheme is so compliant.

Geoff Hoon: The European Employment directive does not cover those who have been elected of appointed to a political office. This is reflected in the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 which implement the age strand of the directive and which where laid before Parliament on 9 March 2006. There is therefore no requirement for the parliamentary pension scheme to be compliant with the directive.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

Abducted Persons

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will conduct inquiries as to the whereabouts and well-being of (a) Mr. Uday Nasser Badr, (b) Mr. Yasser Hamad, (c) Mr. Quitaba Hamdari and (d) Mr. Firaz Imad, abducted by the Badr organisation during February 2004.

Kim Howells: As the hon. Member knows, these individuals were alleged to have been detained by members of the Badr Corps in Southern Iraq in February 2004. The United Nations Special Rapporteur asked the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) to investigate. The CPA was dissolved on 30 June 2004, and despite a search of its records, the United States Government have not been able to trace receipt of this letter or any action taken as a result of it.
	This alleged incident took place more than two years ago at a time when there were many incidents of illegal militia activity. It is therefore not possible at this stage to undertake an investigation into the whereabouts of these individuals other than through the Iraqi police. If the hon. Member believes that they are still in illegal captivity and can provide any information as to their whereabouts we will ask the Iraqi authorities to investigate.

Afghanistan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he has made of al-Qaeda activities in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement.

Kim Howells: There are al-Qaeda members and sympathisers in Afghanistan. Their ability to mount attacks has been constrained by the activities of Afghan and international military forces, although we assess they remain active and continue to pose a threat within Afghanistan.

Ascension Island

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how much the United States has paid for the use of Ascension Island as a military base.

Douglas Alexander: The arrangement under which the United States is able to use Ascension Island as a military base is commonly referred to as the Bahamas Agreement.
	According to Article 23 of this Agreement the Sites shall be provided, and the rights of the Government of the United States of America under this Agreement shall be made available, free from all rent and charges to the Government of the United States of America.

Ascension Island

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with Ascension Island officials on permanent residency.

Douglas Alexander: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my noble Friend the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Lord Triesman of Tottenham, in another place on 6 March 2006 Official Report, columns 52729.

Ascension Island

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many Ascension Island entry permits have been granted in each of the last seven years.

Douglas Alexander: Ascension Island entry permits have been granted as follows.
	
		
			  Number 
		
		
			 2005 5,451 
			 2004 4,212 
			 2003 2,248 
			 2002 5,656 
			 2001 4,928 
			 2000 2,443 
			 1999 1,708

Benin

Mohammad Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the presidential elections in Benin.

Ian Pearson: We welcome reports that the first round of voting in the elections in Benin, held on 5 March, was peaceful and strongly supported by the people of Benin. The Economic Community of West African States Observer Mission reported that the polls were free and fair. If a second round is confirmed as necessary, we urge the authorities, candidates and voters of Benin to ensure that it is held in a similar spirit.
	The successful completion of the elections is important for the future of democracy and the constitutional process in Benin.

British Embassies

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on which occasions his Department has (a) closed and (b) merged a British Embassy in each year since 1997.

Jack Straw: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has closed six British embassies and four British high commissions since 1997. The British embassy at Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire has remained temporarily closed since 1 April 2005. This is due to the uncertain security situation there. The following table gives details of the missions closed permanently and the missions now accredited with representing these closed missions.
	
		
			   Embassy/high commission Cross accreditation to embassy/ high commission 
		
		
			  British embassy closed  
			 200304 Bamako, Mali Dakar, Senegal 
			  San Salvador, El Salvador Guatemala City, Guatemala 
			  Tegucigalpa, Honduras  
			  Managua, Nicaragua San Jose, Costa Rica 
			 200506 Antananarivo, Madagascar Port Louis(22), Mauritius 
			  Asuncion, Paraguay Buenos Aires, Argentina 
			  Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire(22) (temporary closure)  
			
			  High commissions closed  
			 200506 Maseru, Lesotho Pretoria(22), South Africa 
			  Mbabane, Swaziland  
			  Nassau, Bahamas Kingston(22), Jamaica 
			  Port Vila, Vanuatu Suva(22), Fiji 
			
			  Missions due for closure  
			  British High Commission at Nuku' alofa, Tongaclosed to the public from 20 March 2006 Suva(22), Fiji 
			  British Embassy at Dili, East Timorclosed to the public from 14 July 2006 Jakarta, Indonesia 
		
	
	(22) Denotes high commissions
	During the same period, the FCO opened six British embassies and one British high commission. This is part of the FCO's process of realigning its resources in line with strategic priorities.

British Overseas Territories

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs who pays the cost of (a) building and (b) maintaining governors' official homes in British overseas territories.

Douglas Alexander: It is the responsibility of overseas territories Governments to provide and maintain accommodation for governors. However, depending on local circumstances, HM Government have paid for the building of some residencies and pays for some maintenance.

British Overseas Territories

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the total cost was of maintaining governors in British overseas territories in (a) 1980 and (b) 2002.

Douglas Alexander: The total operating costs to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of governors', and administrators', offices in the British overseas territories in 1980 is not held centrally and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. The total cost for 200203 was 7,593,144. This includes salaries, allowances, travel, utilities and maintenance costs.

British Overseas Territories

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will ensure that representatives of British overseas territories based in London are afforded the same status and courtesies as high commissioners from Commonwealth countries.

Jack Straw: The Government cannot afford the same status to representatives of British overseas territories (BOT) as Commonwealth high commissioners. Diplomatic status is conferred on high commissioners of Commonwealth countries as representatives of sovereign states. BOTs are not sovereign states and their representatives are not, therefore, entitled to diplomatic status. As a courtesy, they are listed in the London Diplomatic List, a Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) publication, and, where they meet certain criteria, BOTs receive partial rating relief on their offices and residences based in London. Representatives of BOTs are also often invited by the FCO to attend official events to which high commissioners and ambassadors are invited, and they have full access to FCO officials.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what recent assessment he has made of whether violence from Darfur is crossing the border into Chad;
	(2)  what recent assessment he has made of the security situation around Adre, Chad.

Ian Pearson: We remain concerned by the security situation in Darfur and along the Chadian border. Rebel groups and militia from both Chad and Sudan regularly cross the border, and there have been reports of further clashes in recent days. The situation in Adre and along the border is tense. Stability in both countries is vital for the region and we therefore welcome the peace agreement signed by the Presidents of both Sudan and Chad in Libya on 8 February. We call on the parties to honour it.
	During his visit to Sudan on 2123 February, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development raised these issues with the Government of Sudan and impressed upon them the need to improve the security situation in Darfur. In their meeting with the Sudanese Foreign Minister on 3 February, my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, and my noble Friend, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister for Africa, Lord Triesman of Tottenham, also pressed on the need to reduce tensions with Chad.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the African Union's involvement in Chad.

Ian Pearson: As part of the African Union Mission in Sudan's (AMIS) deployment in Darfur, a component is deployed around the Darfuri refugee camps in Eastern Chad, and has a logistics base in the Chadian town of Abeche. AMIS is doing a good job in difficult circumstances and we welcome their presence in Chad.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what representations he has received from the Chadian Government concerning violence on the Sudanese border;
	(2)  what discussions he has had with African Union Governments on the fighting in Chad.

Ian Pearson: The Chadian Foreign Minister, Allam-mi Ahmad, called on our permanent representative to the United Nations in New York on 9 January 2006. Allam-mi Ahmad raised his Government's concern about the security situation on the Chad/Darfur border and the negative impact it was having on relations between Sudan and Chad. We made clear that we expected both sides to act with restraint and take steps to reduce the tension. We have also discussed the matter in the African Union partners' liaison group in Addis Ababa.
	In their meeting with the Sudanese Foreign Minister on 3 February 2006, my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, and my noble Friend, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister for Africa, Lord Triesman of Tottenham, underlined the need to reduce tensions with Chad. My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for International Development raised these issues during his visit to Sudan on 2123 February.
	We welcome the peace agreement signed by the Presidents of both Sudan and Chad in Libya on 8 February, by which both sides committed themselves to refraining from intervening in the other's internal affairs and prevent the presence of rebel groups on their territory. We urge the parties to honour it.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what recent discussions he has had on the role of NATO in assisting the African Union in Chad and Sudan;
	(2)  if he will make a statement on NATO's role in Chad and Sudan.

Ian Pearson: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has discussed Sudan and the situation in Darfur with a range of African leaders in recent weeks. He believe that NATO is making a valuable contribution in support of the African Union's Mission in Sudan (AMIS), and that NATO should continue to focus its efforts on providing assistance to AMIS. NATO is not involved in Chad and there is no NATO role under consideration.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received concerning refugee camps in Chad and Sudan.

Ian Pearson: We hold regular discussions with the UN and other humanitarian non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as well as the Government of Sudan and other international partners about the camps for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Sudan and refugees in Chad. During his visit to Sudan from 21 to 23 February 2006, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development visited the Abu Shouk camp in North Darfur, meeting with local NGOs and key officials and IDPs to discuss the situation in the camps.
	The UK has provided nearly 100 million to support the humanitarian effort in Sudan and Chad since 2003, and we conduct regular monitoring missions to the camps in Sudan and Chad.

Chad/Sudan

William Hague: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with his (a) Chinese, (b) Russian and (c) Qatari counterparts regarding the 30 January UN Security Council report that identifies the Sudanese individuals alleged to be most responsible for war crimes and impeding the peace process in Darfur; and if he will make a statement.

Jack Straw: We have held several discussions with our Security Council partners, including the Chinese, Russian and Qataris about the 23 December 2005 report of the Panel of Experts, appointed pursuant to UN Security Council Resolution 1591. We are pressing for swift action by the UN Sanctions Committee on the panel's recommendations, including the listing of individuals for targeted sanctions. We will not comment on individual names, but that there can be no impunity for those who violate human rights or impede the peace process in Sudan. We will strongly support the imposition of sanctions against individuals who do so, where there is clear and compelling evidence against them.

Chad/Sudan

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made on the new law proposed by the Government of Southern Sudan which would require non-governmental organisations to register with the Government within 90 days.

Ian Pearson: The national Government of Sudan adopted a new national law governing the work of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) on 20 February 2006, stipulating that all NGOs must register with the Government within 90 days. Our embassy in Khartoum, other international partners and NGOs have raised this matter with the Government of Sudan on several occasions. During his visit to Sudan on 2123 February, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development, raised our concerns with Vice President Taha and Foreign Minister Lam Akol. Taha agreed to hold detailed discussions with the international community and NGOs on this matter. We will continue to take these discussions forward with the Government of Sudan and the international donor community.

Chad/Sudan

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the UN special representative in Sudan, on whether NATO forces should be deployed in Darfur.

Ian Pearson: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has not had any recent discussions with Jan Pronk. However, senior Foreign and Commonwealth Office officials are in regular contact with him on the situation in Sudan and on support to the African Union in Darfur. NATO, through airlift co-ordination and training, has made a valuable contribution in support of the African Union's Mission in Sudan (AMIS). We believe that NATO should continue to focus its efforts on providing assistance to AMIS.

Chad/Sudan

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what sanctions are being considered for use against the different factions involved in the Darfur crisis.

Ian Pearson: UN Security Council Resolution 1591 provides for the imposition of travel bans and assets freezes on individuals involved in the Darfur crisis who have committed violations of international law and other atrocities, or impede the peace process. We are pressing for swift action by the UN Sudan Sanctions Committee, who are currently discussing the issue, to impose such sanctions. We are also pushing for the current arms embargo on Darfur to be extended to the whole of Sudan.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when the names of those on the list for the proposed travel ban and freezing of assets of Sudanese Government, militia and rebel leaders are expected to be announced.

Ian Pearson: It is usual practice for the UN Sanctions Committees not to announce the names of individuals being considered for targeted sanctions. Names are released when the relevant Committee decides to impose sanctions against individuals. We are pressing for swift action by the Sanctions Committee in this case. We will strongly support the imposition of sanctions against individuals who violate human rights or impede the peace process in Sudan.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with (a) China and (b) other UN Security Council members concerning the travel ban and freezing of assets of Sudanese Government, militia and rebel leaders; and if he will make a statement.

Ian Pearson: We have held several discussions with our Security Council partners, including the Chinese, about the imposition of targeted sanctions under UN Security Council Resolution 1591. We have held these discussions bilaterally, in the Sanctions Committee and in the Security Council. We are pressing for swift action by the UN Sanctions Committee on the listing of individuals for targeted sanctions. We are clear that there can be no impunity for those who violate human rights or impede the peace process in Sudan. We will strongly support the imposition of sanctions against individuals who do so where there is clear and compelling evidence against them.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when the proposed (a) travel ban and (b) freezing of assets of Sudanese Government, militia and rebel leaders is scheduled to come into effect; when he expects the UN to adopt the measures; and how long each will last.

Ian Pearson: Targeted sanctions against individuals come into force with immediate effect when the UN Sanctions Committee decides to impose them. We are pressing for swift action by the UN Sudan Sanctions Committee to impose such sanctions against individuals who have committed violations of international law and other atrocities, or impede the peace process. Sanctions remain in place until the UN Sanctions Committee decides they should be lifted.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received concerning President Deby's alleged support of Zaghawa-led rebels in Darfur.

Ian Pearson: We are aware of reports concerning President Deby's alleged support for Zaghawa-led rebels in Darfur, and of reports concerning the Government of Sudan's alleged support for Chadian rebels. We have called on all sides to show restraint, and on the Governments of Chad and Sudan to resolve their differences and restore calm to the region, without the use of violence.
	Stability in both countries is vital for the region and we therefore welcome the peace agreement signed by the Presidents of both Sudan and Chad in Libya on 8 February. Under this agreement, both sides committed themselves to refraining from intervening in the other's internal affairs and prevent the presence of rebel groups on their territory. We call on the parties to honour it.

Chad/Sudan

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the proposed travel ban and freezing of assets of Sudanese Government, militia and rebel leaders.

Ian Pearson: UN Security Council Resolution 1591 provides for the imposition of travel bans and assets freezes on individuals involved in the Darfur crisis who have committed violations of international law and other atrocities, or who impede the peace process. We are pressing for swift action by the UN Sudan Sanctions Committee, who are currently discussing the issue, to impose such sanctions. We are clear that there can be no impunity for those who violate human rights or impede the peace process in Sudan. We strongly support the imposition of sanctions against individuals who do so, where there is clear and compelling evidence against them.

China

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the objectives of Government policy towards China.

Ian Pearson: The Government attach great importance to developing a strong and productive political and economic relationship with the People's Republic of China.
	We are working to expand co-operation in areas of key importance to UK policy. These are set out in detail in a joint statement by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and the Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao of 10 May 2004 (http://www.pm.gov.uk/output/Page5779.asp).

China

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations he has received requesting that he include reference to the Chinese one child policy in his Department's Human Rights Annual Report; and if he will make a statement.

Ian Pearson: The Government have received representations requesting the inclusion of reference to China's one child policy in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's Human Rights Annual Report in the form of one parliamentary question from the hon. Member for Southend West, and several letters from members of the public.
	We continue to highlight our concerns about human rights in China in the report. While we do not question China's right or need to implement family planning policies, we are concerned about reports of enforced sterilisation and abortion. We believe that China's family planning policies should be based on the principle of consent, and not coercion, as espoused by the International Conference on Population and Development. Although we have yet to decide what subjects we will cover in this year's report, we will consider including material assessing the reform and operation of China's population policies.

China

David Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs for what reasons no reference was made to the Chinese One Child Policy in his Department's Human Rights Annual Report 2006; and if he will make a statement.

Ian Pearson: The Government highlights their concerns about human rights in China in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's Annual Human Rights Report. We do not question China's right or need to implement family planning policies, but remain concerned about reports of enforced sterilisation and abortion. We have yet to decide what subjects we will cover in the 2006 Report. However, we will consider including material assessing the reform and operation of China's population policies, and reports of enforced sterilisation and abortion in Linyi City, Shandong Province recently highlighted by Chinese lawyer, Chen Guangcheng.

Commonwealth Day

Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans his Department has in place to celebrate Commonwealth Day in the United Kingdom.

Ian Pearson: The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is primarily responsible for organising Commonwealth Day celebrations in the UK. As in previous years, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) will again provide financial support and FCO staff will attend the RCS's principal event, a multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey in the presence of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales.

Congo

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has been made by the Lutundula Commission on the illegal exploitation of resources in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Ian Pearson: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)'s Parliamentary Commission on the validity of economic and financial agreements made during the 199697 and 1998 wars (the Lutundula Commission) completed investigations in June 2005. It concluded that many contracts had been signed illegally or against the interest of the Congolese state, some mining companies were operating illegally and the state's resources had been poorly managed. The report has been passed to the Bureau of the National Assembly. No parliamentary debate has yet been scheduled.
	We and international partners and non-governmental organisations continue to press the authorities to address the issues raised in the report and to ensure that the DRC's enormous mineral wealth be used transparently and efficiently to benefit the whole Congolese population.

Ethiopia

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with the Government of Ethiopia regarding (a) respect for human rights and (b) the release of political prisoners.

Ian Pearson: We remain concerned about the internal situation in Ethiopia including human rights and the rule of law, and regularly raise this with the Government of Ethiopia at both ministerial and official level. Most recently, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister discussed developments with Prime Minister Meles on 12 February. This followed similar discussions in December 2005 between Prime Minister Meles and my noble Friend, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister for Africa, Lord Triesman of Tottenham, and between my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development, in January 2006.
	In our discussions, we raised the need for the trials of those charged in the wake of the June and November 2005 disturbances to be transparent, independent and impartial. The international community is monitoring the trials and the internal situation in Ethiopia closely. In line with assurances given by Prime Minister Meles to my noble Friend Lord Triesman in December 2005, the EU have identified an independent International Jurist to monitor the trial of those charged with offences. We are discussing the terms of his appointment with the Government of Ethiopia.

Falkland Islands

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make representations to his Argentinian counterpart on recent interference with Falkland Islands shipping.

Douglas Alexander: The fishing vessel John Cheek was detained by the Argentine authorities on 20 February. Our ambassador in Buenos Aires has discussed the matter with the Argentine authorities and passed them the data we have available which shows the vessel to have been in international waters. We await a response. We will continue to follow this case closely and remain in close touch with the owners of the vessel.
	The Government make representations to foreign governments in shipping cases where there is concern that international law has been breached with regard to UK or UK (overseas territory) flagged vessels. This applies to Falkland Islands shipping.

Gymnich Meeting

Andrew MacKinlay: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what matters will be discussed at the next Gymnich meeting; and if he will make a statement.

Douglas Alexander: The informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers, Gymnich on 1011 March will discuss the Middle East; Iran, Ukraine, Belarus, Children in armed conflict, the Western Balkans, and dialogue between cultures and religions.
	An informal meeting of EU and Western Balkans Foreign Ministers will take place in the margins of the Gymnich, on 11 March.

India

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the objectives of the Government's policy towards India.

Kim Howells: The main objectives of our policy towards India are highlighted in the UK India joint declaration signed by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and the Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, during Dr. Singh's visit to the UK in September 2004, in which they set out plans to strengthen and deepen the bilateral relationship between the two countries, through a comprehensive strategic partnership.
	More background and a booklet on the joint declaration can be found at: http://www.britishhighcommission.gov.uk/servelet/Front?pagename=Open Market/Xcelerate/ShowPagec=Pagecid= l101400864001.

India

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations he has made to the Indian Government about the persecution of Christians in that country; and if he will make a statement.

Kim Howells: The Government are concerned about the treatment of Christians in certain parts of India. Our high commission in New Delhi continue to monitor the situation in respect of Christians and other minority groups with officials making regular calls on Minorities Commission, National Human Rights Commission and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Commissions, flagging up our concern about incidents of religious intolerance.
	Our deputy high commissioner sought a call on the National Minorities Commission on 7 February to raise a number of issues including attacks on Christians and other minority groups. One particular issue focused on the concerns of the Christians in the Dangs District of Gujarat as anti-minority materials were being circulated in connection with a forthcoming Hindu festival in the area. Although this meeting was cancelled we received confirmation from the Commission that the Ministry of Home Affairs were monitoring the situation and offering police support to the state government to ensure there were no problems. The festival took place without incident on 1113 February.
	The UK, as Presidency of the European Union, also raised the issue of minority groups during a human rights dialogue with Indian Government officials in Delhi on 1 December 2005.
	The Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines the rights of everyone to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. The UK supports this right in international fora. We condemn instances where individuals are persecuted because of their faith or belief, wherever they happen and whatever the religion of the individual or group concerned.

India

Keith Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the likely effects of the US decision to give India access to civilian nuclear assistance; and if he will make a statement.

Kim Howells: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Sheffield, Hallam (Mr. Clegg) on 7 March 2005, Official Report, column 1343W.

International Arms Trade

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he has taken to secure an international arms trade treaty; and what action he has taken to stop the sale of arms and equipment to countries with poor human rights records.

Kim Howells: In 2005, we secured EU and Commonwealth support for the start of a UN process to take forward the initiative for an international treaty on the trade in conventional arms. We will continue to take this work forward in 2006, with the aim of securing the start of a UN process at the earliest opportunity.
	All relevant applications for export licences from the UK are rigorously assessed on a case by case basis against the Consolidated EU and national export licensing criteria, taking account of the circumstances prevailing at the time and other relevant announced Government policies. These criteria include provision that the Government will not issue an export licence where there is a clear risk that the proposed export might be used for the purpose of internal repression.

International Arms Trade

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions the Government have had with the United Nations regarding an international arms trade treaty; and if he will make a statement.

Kim Howells: We are committed to working towards an international treaty on the trade in all conventional arms. To ensure the widest possible participation in such a treaty, we believe this initiative should be taken forward through a UN based process. We are working with international partners to build support for the launch of such a process. In 2005, we secured EU and Commonwealth support. In 2006, we are continuing to build support, with the aim of securing the start of a UN process at the earliest opportunity.

Iran

Keith Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the extent of (a) Russian and (b) Chinese involvement in (i) building facilities and (ii) providing technology to Iran in connection with its nuclear programme; and if he will make a statement.

Kim Howells: Both Russian and Chinese organisations have provided assistance, including training, for Iran's nuclear programme. For example, Russia is engaged in construction of and fuel supply for the Light Water Reactor at Bushehr. China assisted Iran in the sinking of the Saghand uranium ore mine and provided designs for the uranium conversion facility and the zirconium production plant at Esfahan.
	Both Russia and China were associated with my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary's statement of 30 January 2006 expressing serious concerns about Iran's nuclear programme and calling on Iran to restore in full the suspension of enrichment related activities including research and development. The full text of this statement can be found on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website:
	http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=Open Market/Xcelerate/ShowPagec=Pagecid= l007029391629a=KArticleaid=1136909180306%20year= 2006month=20060101date=20060130.

Iran

Keith Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what estimate he has made of the number of Iranian nuclear scientists residing in Iran who have received training in the UK since 1995; and if he will make a statement.

Kim Howells: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office does not, and is not required to, hold information of this nature. It is therefore not possible to answer the question.

Iran

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the (a) Saudi, (b) Chinese and (c) Indian authorities about the stance of the Iranian Government on uranium enrichment.

Kim Howells: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and senior officials are in frequent contact with their Saudi, Chinese and Indian counterparts concerning Iran's nuclear programme. We have been working closely with them and other international partners to encourage Iran to address international concerns and to meet in full the requests of the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Board of Governors. China and India supported the resolution adopted by the IAEA Board on 4 February. Saudi Arabia is not presently represented on the board.

Iran

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the (a) capability and (b) range of Iranian missiles; and which countries he assesses to be in range of such missiles.

Kim Howells: Iran's longest range in-service missile is believed to be the Shahab-3, which entered into service in 2003. It has a claimed range of 1,300 km, with a 750 kg warhead. This range would enable Iran to target Israel, Turkey and Cyprus, as well as large parts of Saudi Arabia. Iran has ambitions to extend the range of its missiles and develop longer range missile systems, which would give it the capability to target a number of European countries.
	Information relating to Iran has been made available to the International Atomic Energy Agency suggesting that Iran may be designing a missile re-entry vehicle which could have a military nuclear dimension.
	Iran also has a satellite launch vehicle programme, which shares some of the same technology as a ballistic missile programme.

Iran

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the objectives are of the Government's policy towards Iran.

Kim Howells: Together with France and Germany, and our partners in the EU and the rest of the international community, we have sought to encourage Iran to take steps to build international confidence that its nuclear programme is for exclusively peaceful purposes. We have also sought to encourage Iran to address our serious concerns about Iranian policy across a wide range of issues, including Iran's attitude towards terrorism; its lack of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; its approach to the Middle East peace process; and its role in Iraq.

Iraq

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 6 February 2006, Official Report, column 774W, on Iraq, what Geneva Convention rights apply to the four named individuals during the time in question.

Kim Howells: From the report provided by the Special Rapporteur, it would seem that the allegation is that these four individuals were illegally detained by one of the militia groups operating in Iraq at that time. As we do not know the full details of this incident or the status of the individuals at that time, we cannot give a definitive view on what rights they may have had under the Geneva Conventions. However, the Fourth Geneva Convention was applicable in Iraq at that time.

Iraq

Gordon Prentice: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with his counterpart in the US on the date for possible withdrawal of coalition troops from Iraq.

Kim Howells: The UK has a regular dialogue with the US Government about a broad range of issues in relation to Iraq, including military planning. As we have made clear, the process of progressively transferring security responsibility from Coalition to Iraqi Security Forces is based on conditions on the ground, not on predetermined timelines, and will be pursued in full consultation with the Iraqi Government.

Israel (Palestinian Land)

Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what representations the Government has made to the Israeli Government on Israel taking more Palestinian land for settlements, roads and the Wall in the West Bank and East Jerusalem;
	(2)  if he will make a statement on the Government's response to the stated intentions of the Acting Israeli Prime Minister to declare new borders which annex the major settlement blocks of East Jerusalem and the Jordan Valley.

Kim Howells: Under Phase Three of the Roadmap, final status issues can only be resolved through negotiations and agreement between the parties themselves. We share the Quartet's (EU, UN, US and Russia) goal of a two-state solution with Israel secure within her borders and Palestine established as a viable, contiguous state. We shall continue to work to this end.
	We will continue to raise our concerns over the settlements and the barrier with the Israeli Government at all levels.
	Our ambassador in Tel Aviv last raised our concerns about settlements and impact of the barrier in East Jerusalem with the Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 19 December 2005. He also raised Palestinian access to the Jordan Valley on 2 March with the Israeli Prime Minister's Special Adviser.
	Settlements are illegal under international law and settlement construction is an obstacle to peace. The Roadmap is clear that Israel should freeze all settlement construction including the natural growth of existing settlements, and dismantle all outposts built since March 2001.
	We also fully recognise Israel's right to self-defence. A barrier is a reasonable way to achieve this. But the barrier's route should be on or behind the Green Line, and not on occupied territory. Construction of the barrier on Palestinian land is illegal. The route is particularly damaging around East Jerusalem, as it risks cutting the city off from the West Bank and dividing the West Bank in two.

Kabula (Prison Riot)

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the recent riot in Kabula's main prison.

Kim Howells: On 25 February, about 1,300 prisoners in Policharki prison broke out of their cells and took control of block 2. They were reportedly protesting against new uniform regulations and alleged mistreatment and set fire to the facility. About 70 women prisoners and 70 children were trapped in an adjoining block. The prison authorities called in police and army reinforcements, sealed off the compound and fired at the prison perimeter wall to prevent escape. Prisoners from block 1 also joined the protest.
	Soldiers from NATO's International Security Assistance Force, a training team from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, including four British Prison Service officers, and representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), monitored developments at the scene and provided advice on peaceful resolution of the disturbance.
	Deputy Minister of Justice Hashimzai led negotiations and on 28 February the women and children's block was evacuated. All were unharmed. On 1 March, protestors from block 2 surrendered and were temporarily accommodated within Policharki. The prisoners in block 1 returned to their cells. ICRC reported six dead and 31 wounded as a result of the shooting and violence.

Lisbon Agenda

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what policies his Department has adopted to assist the United Kingdom's fulfilment of the Lisbon Agenda criteria.

Douglas Alexander: The Government strongly supports the renewed Lisbon focus on jobs and growth as the best way to meet the challenges of globalisation and boost prosperity and living standards for all. The UK National Reform Programme (a copy of which is available in the Library of the House) details our policy response to these challenges. We expect the Spring Council in March to emphasise the importance of implementation of national commitments to reform.

Madagascar

Ben Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what research was commissioned in advance of the decision to close the British embassy in Madagascar to examine the likely effects on UK (a) trade and (b) investment.

Ian Pearson: The commercial and investment promotion roles of the British embassy in Madagascar were among the factors taken into account, in the context of wider UK foreign policy priorities, in the decision to close the embassy taken in December 2004.

Michael Shields

Louise Ellman: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Bulgarian authorities in relation to Michael Shields, imprisoned in Bulgaria; and if he will make a statement.

Douglas Alexander: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary first raised Michael Shields'; case with the Bulgarian Foreign Minister, Ivailo Kalfin, on 21 September 2005 and has since registered his continued interest on 18 October and 8 December. He also raised Michael Shields' case with the Bulgarian Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev, Foreign Minister and Europe Minister, Meglena Kuneva, on 16 December 2005. I also raised the case with Prime Minister Stanishev during my visit to Sofia on 6 February.

Middle East

Celia Barlow: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he recognises the right of return to their homes and land of Palestinian refugees.

Kim Howells: The return of refugees is a final status issue. It must therefore form part of a negotiated settlement between the two parties. We continue to urge both the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority to implement their commitments under the Roadmap as the best way to get to a negotiated settlement, and to the discussion of such issues.

Middle East

Richard Burden: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 16 February 2006, Official Report, column 2285W, on Israel and Palestine, what border the UK Government recognises as the international border between the State of Israel and the West Bank pending mutual determination between the parties of the future borders in accordance with Phase III of the Road Map.

Kim Howells: The territory beyond the Green Line which Israel occupied in June 1967 is occupied territory. UN Security Council Resolution 242 (1967) which the UK supported calls for the withdrawal of Israeli armed forces from territories occupied in the recent conflict and the termination of all claims of belligerency and respect for and acknowledgement of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of every state in the area and their right to live in peace within secure and recognised boundaries free from threats or acts of force.

Non-proliferation Treaty

Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the impact on the nuclear non-proliferation treaty of the agreement between the US and India on nuclear arrangements.

Kim Howells: We believe the agreement between the US and India on nuclear arrangements will have a positive impact on the broader nuclear non-proliferation framework, of which the nuclear non-proliferation treaty (NPT) is the cornerstone. We do not believe the agreement will have a direct impact upon the NPT. We remain committed to the objective of universal NPT adherence.
	India has committed to place more reactors under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, including all future civilian reactors, to sign an Additional Protocol with the IAEA, to adhere to the Guidelines of the Missile Technology Control Regime and the Nuclear Suppliers Group, to continue its unilateral moratorium on nuclear testing, and to work with the US for a multilateral fissile material cut-off treaty. Implementation of these commitments will bring India further into and thereby strengthen the broader nuclear non-proliferation framework, which is underpinned by the NPT.

Palestine

Graham Brady: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs 
	(1)  what representations he has received on the destination of the EU funding for the Palestinian Authority announced on 27 February 2006 from (a) the United States, (b) France, (c) Israel and (d) the Office of the Chairman of the Palestinian Authority;
	(2)  what assessment his Department has made of whether EU funds transferred to the Palestinian Authority will be paid to (a) members of Hamas and (b) people affiliated to the Change and Reform list.

Kim Howells: As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development told the House on 1 March, the international community is united in its support for the Quartet statement of 30 January. Hamas needs to give up violence, recognise Israel and sign up to previous obligations on the peace process. Aid to the future government will be reviewed against those principles. While the current caretaker Government is in place, the international community is examining closely what steps could help to stabilise the financial situation, as recommended by the Quartet. On 27 February, the UK made 5 million available to the World Bank to transfer to Abu Mazen's interim Government.
	No UK aid money will be used to support Hamas, or the Change and Reform Party. The international community is clear that Hamas needs to take the steps set out in the Quartet statement. At the same time, everybody recognises that it is in nobody's interest that services to Palestinians, particularly poor Palestinians, who have suffered so much should be removed because of the election process.
	My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, British Ambassadors and the Consul General in Jerusalem have discussed the issues with interested parties including the US, France, Israel and the Chairman of the Palestinian Authority.

Prism

Chris Mullin: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of (a) the cost-effectiveness of Prism and (b) its impact on (i) the workload of overseas missions and (ii) the number of staff employed; and if he will make a statement.

Jack Straw: The Business Case for Prism predicted 10 million per annum savings by the end of the programme (January 2010). The Programme is aiming to ensure the full benefits of Prism are realised and has scheduled a 'Gateway 5 Review' by the Office of Government Commerce for the end of 2006. This will provide an independent assessment of the cost effectiveness of Prism.
	Prism brings major changes, it is not merely a new IT system. It establishes new processes and reinforces adherence to existing processes. This is a significant challenge, particularly for staff using Prism each day, including management officers, accountants and buyers. Their workload certainly increases during the first months of using the system. For many, this has been exacerbated by Prism's poor performance, particularly its speed. A concerted effort to improve this is beginning to pay dividends for a significant number of Posts. But many using satellite links continue to face slow performance. Despite this, our experience is that, once Posts get to grips with Prism, workloads start to return to normal. Posts with most Prism experience are beginning to see tangible benefits from the changes.
	The Prism Business Plan identified the potential to move staff from 'back office' to 'front line' functions throughout the network. 'Hub and spoke' pilots will take place in several countries during financial year 200607 to investigate providing 'shared services' from 'hub' Posts. Proceeding with 'hub and spoke' will need to be justified by a rigorous business/benefits case, validated through the pilots. It is too early to identify how this will affect staff numbers. Prism has not impacted staff numbers overseas to date.

Religious Persecution

Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action he has taken to seek the release from prison of Pastor Cai Zhuohua.

Ian Pearson: We regularly raise our human rights concerns, including individual cases, with the Chinese Government. Following the trial of Pastor Cai in July 2005, the UK-led EU Presidency raised his case during the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue in October 2005. The EU also raised the case of Pastor Cai and his defence lawyer, Gao Zhisheng in December 2005 and February 2006. The next round of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue in June 2006 will continue the focus of the UK presidency on freedom of religious belief. We continue to raise individual cases of concern in our engagement with the Chinese Government.

Religious Persecution

Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Chinese authorities on religious persecution against Protestant groups in China.

Ian Pearson: The Government are concerned about limitations on freedom of religious belief in China and the treatment of religious practitioners, including Protestants. We regularly raise our concerns with the Chinese Government. We did so at the last UK-China Human Rights Dialogue in June 2005. I spoke at length about the persecution of Christians in China during a parliamentary debate on 13 July 2005, Official Report, columns 302308WH. Freedom of religion was a focus of the last EU-China Human Rights Dialogue, which took place under the UK presidency in October 2005. The EU Troika raised freedom of religious practice in demarches on the Chinese Government in Beijing on 29 December 2005 and 15 February 2006. We continue to raise our concerns about religious freedom with the Chinese authorities.

Sino-Tibet Talks

Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the latest round of Sino-Tibet talks; whether those talks have been discussed in the context of the UK-China human rights dialogue; whether the UK Government plans to make representations pressing for further progress in the talks and negotiations; and if he will make a statement.

Ian Pearson: The latest round of talks between the Chinese Government and representatives of the Dalai Lama took place in China on 22 February. We welcome the talks and note that both sides confirmed their continued commitment to the dialogue process, while highlighting some fundamental differences in views and approach. As at the last UK-China Human Rights Dialogue, we will continue to urge the Chinese Government to engage in serious negotiations with the Dalai Lama's representatives, without pre-conditions, to build a peaceful, sustainable and legitimate solution for Tibet.

St. Helena

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans there are for members of the Royal Family to make official visits to St. Helena over the next five years.

Jack Straw: None.

Terrorist Suspects

Michael Moore: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list the countries with which the UK has held discussions on establishing a memorandum of understanding for the treatment of deported terrorist suspects; and what the status of the discussions is in each case.

Kim Howells: Following discussions with the Governments of the countries concerned, memorandum of understanding (MOUs) have been signed with Libya, Lebanon and Jordan. We are in discussion with a number of other countries, including Algeria, with a view to agreeing MOUs. It would not be in the interest of these discussions to give details of their current status.

Terrorist Suspects

Michael Moore: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list the countries with which the UK has agreed a memorandum of understanding for the treatment of deported terrorist suspects; when the memorandum was agreed in each case; which non-governmental organisation in the country will monitor the memorandum; how the independence and suitability of the non-governmental organisation for this purpose was established; and if he will make a statement.

Kim Howells: Memoranda of understanding have been signed with Jordan, on 10 August 2005, Libya, on 18 October 2005, and the Lebanon, on 23 December 2005. The appointed monitoring body in Jordan is the Adaleh Centre for Human Rights Studies. A monitoring body has not yet been appointed in Libya or Lebanon. We and the other Government identify potential monitoring bodies according to their expertise, capacity and functional independence. The Government are willing to provide capacity building support to the appointed monitoring bodies to help the body to undertake fully the monitoring role.

Uganda

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the situation in Uganda following the recent election.

Ian Pearson: The first multi-party elections for 25 years were held in Uganda on 23 February. Voter turnout was high and the elections and their aftermath have been generally peaceful. The rape case against the main opposition candidate, Dr. Kizza Besigye, has been dismissed.
	Our high commissioner in Kampala, as chair of the donors' group in Uganda (the Partners for Democracy and Governance), and his Dutch co-chair have held discussions with both President Museveni and the main opposition party following the elections. We have called on all involved to work within the constitution to embed the evolving multi-party democratic system in Uganda.

Uganda

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on human rights in Uganda; and what action the Government are taking to improve human rights in Uganda.

Ian Pearson: There remains a great deal to do to secure full respect for human rights in Uganda. We are particularly concerned by the situation in northern Uganda. As a result of the long-running conflict, 1.7 million people are living in appalling conditions in internally displaced peoples' camps and over 20,000 children have been abducted by the rebel Lord's Resistance Army since 1988.
	Uganda benefits from an independent judiciary and a relatively free press but concerns do remain regarding restrictions on political freedom and reports of arbitrary detention and torture.
	We continue to emphasise the importance of upholding human rights in our discussions with the Ugandan Government. In 200405, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office provided financial support to a Ugandan firm of barristers who were challenging the implementation and application of the death penalty in Uganda. In June 2005, the constitutional court ruled that mandatory death sentences were unconstitutional.

UK Citizens (Overseas Detention)

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 26 January 2006, Official Report, column 2244W, on UK citizens (overseas detention), whether the details of the three individuals are a matter of public record.

Kim Howells: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him on 9 March 2006, Official Report, columns 16901691W, in which I provided details about the detention of the four British nationals held without charge for more than 12 months. The details of their detention are therefore, a matter of public record. One of the individuals is Mr. Al Jedda and his case is a matter of public record before the courts in the case of R (on the application of Hilal Abdul-Razzaq Ali Al-Jedda) v. Secretary of State for Defence. However, for reasons of consular confidentiality, I cannot identify the other individuals.

UN Mechanisms (Gaza)

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 6 February 2006, Official Report, column 783W, on UN mechanisms (Gaza), what information he has received from the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs on the UN's discussions with the UNRWA on the Israeli Air Force operating low-flying aircraft over the Gaza strip.

Kim Howells: We understand UN Special Co-ordinator de Soto has raised this issue directly with the Israeli authorities.

Vietnam

Chris Mullin: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many visa applicants in each of the last three years were turned away by the British consulate in Ho Chi Minh City on the grounds that they required interviews in Hanoi.

Kim Howells: The British Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City accepts only certain categories of visa applications. These are detailed on the post website at http://www.britishembassy.gov.uk/servlet/Front? pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPagec= Pagecid=1064573168221 All applicants not meeting the criteria for acceptance must lodge their application at the British embassy in Hanoi. These applications are not separately recorded for statistical purposes.
	Since March 2005, approximately 600 applications made in Ho Chi Minh City under the agreed criteria were referred to Hanoi for interview. No statistics for visa referrals were collected before 2005.

Vietnam

Chris Mullin: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many visa applications have been received from citizens of Vietnam during the last 12 months; how many required interview; and how many of those requiring interview came from Southern Vietnam.

Kim Howells: The British Embassy in Hanoi and Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City received 5,647 visa applications between 1 March 2005 and 6 March 2006, of which 5,344 were from Vietnamese nationals. In this same period, 2,058 entry clearance interviews were conducted in Hanoi with Vietnamese nationals. Statistics on how many applicants requiring interview came from specific locations are not collected. However, we estimate that about 600 applicants who applied for visas in Ho Chi Minh City were interviewed in Hanoi.
	The complexity of UKvisas' global business means that 100 per cent. accuracy of statistics is not guaranteed.

CULTURE MEDIA AND SPORT

Archaeological Finds

Don Foster: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many archaeological finds by members of the public have been reported from (a) England, (b) Scotland, (c) Wales and (d) Northern Ireland on a (i) mandatory and (ii) voluntary basis since 2003; and if she will make a statement.

David Lammy: Since 2003, 109,579 archaeological objects have been reported on a voluntary basis in England and 10,443 in Wales.
	Since 2003, 1,473 archaeological objects have been reported on a mandatory basis through the Treasure Act in England and 61 in Wales.
	The voluntary and mandatory reporting of finds in Northern Ireland and Scotland is a devolved matter. However, the Treasure Act is administered in Northern Ireland by my Department and there have been three treasure finds reported under this Act since 2003.

BBC

Edward Vaizey: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment she has made of the report of the Content Advisory Board on the BBC Digital Curriculum; and if she will make a statement.

James Purnell: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Skills has considered the report and indicated her support for the recommendations, with the exception of that relating to a review of the BBC jam service. The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport's role is in relation to the conditions she attached in granting approval for the Digital Curriculum in 2003, which included a commitment that the service would be reviewed within two years of its launch. She expects the BBC to continue to comply with all the conditions applying to the service.

BBC

Hugo Swire: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessments she has made of potential overruns in the BBC Broadcasting House building project's (a) timetable and (b) budget.

James Purnell: No assessment has been made. Day to day decisions about expenditure are the responsibility of the BBC. The BBC's Board of Governors have ultimate responsibility for the Corporation's actions and decisions. They must satisfy themselves that the activities of the Corporation are carried out to the highest standards of probity, propriety and value for money. The Government have no authority to intervene in such matters.

Councillors' Conduct (Licensing Applications)

Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions she has had with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister regarding the application of the councillors' code of conduct in cases where councillors make representations on licensing applications and attend licensing committees; and if she will make a statement.

James Purnell: holding answer 6 March 2006
	In my answer of 19 December 2005, Official Report, columns 253233W to the hon. Member, I referred to the Government's intention to amend the code of conduct for local authority members following a review of the code by the Standards Board for England.
	One of the stated aims of the review is for a clearer, simpler, more proportionate code of conduct for members, including supporting members' advocacy roles through some relaxation of rules relating to the ability of dual-hatted members with a prejudicial interest to express their views.
	Officials from my Department and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister have been in touch about the operation of the code of conduct when licensing applications are being considered, and these discussions will continue in the context of the review of the code of conduct.

Digital Television

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what estimate she has made of (a) the amount which will be raised from and (b) the maximum commercial value of the resale of licences for the frequencies on the electromagnetic spectrum that will be freed once analogue television is turned off; and if she will make a statement.

James Purnell: It is not possible to estimate with any reliability the direct income to the exchequer from any auction of the spectrum-this would depend on the parameters of any auction and the market conditions at the time.
	In November last year, Ofcom announced the beginning of the Digital Dividend Review (DDR), the project which will examine the options arising from the release of spectrum afforded by the digital switchover programme, further information can be found by visiting:
	www.ofcom.org.uk/radiocomms/ddr/documents/ddroverview/#content

Drugs in Sport

Hugh Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment she has made of the potential effect on sport of the UNESCO International Convention Against Doping.

Richard Caborn: The Government believe the Convention will complement the UK's National Anti-Doping Policy by placing it within an international legal framework that clearly sets out the Government's responsibilities in the fight against doping in sport.
	In particular, the Convention will support the activities of the UK's national anti-doping organisation, UK Sport, in helping British sport to become compliant with the World Anti-Doping Code.
	We took receipt of the authenticated text of the Convention in January. The Convention was published as a Command Paper with its associated Explanatory Memorandum on 3 February. The Convention is currently before Parliament. We hope to have completed the ratification process in the spring.

Drugs in Sport

Hugh Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many drug tests were carried out by UK Sport in each of the past three years; what the unit cost was; and what the results of the tests were.

Richard Caborn: In 200304 there were 5,972 samples collected for doping analysis, of which 87 or 1.5 per cent. resulted in an adverse finding.
	In 200405 there were 6,484 samples collected for doping analysis, of which 62 or 1 per cent. resulted in an adverse finding.
	In 200506 there has so far been 7,173 samples collected for doping analysis, of which 46 samples or 0.6 per cent. have resulted in an adverse finding.
	The unit cost per sample for 200506 is 295. The information requested for the previous two years could be provided only at disproportionate cost. However, an estimated unit cost for 200304 and 200405 is approximately 295, subject to the prevailing inflation indices.

Drugs in Sport

Kate Hoey: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport whether the Government plans to sign the UNESCO Convention on Anti-Doping.

Richard Caborn: The Government have shown their full support for the UNESCO International Convention against in Doping in Sport, which resulted in its adoption at the 33rd UNESCO General Conference in October 2005.
	Conventions adopted by the UNESCO General Conference are not submitted for signature by UNESCO state parties. Instead, UNESCO conventions are authenticated by the signatures of the President of the General Conference and the UNESCO Director General.
	Following receipt of the authenticated text of this Convention in January, the Convention was published as a Command Paper with its associated Explanatory Memorandum on 3 February. The Convention is currently before Parliament. We hope to have completed the ratification process in the spring.

Events Industry Alliance

Malcolm Moss: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if she or one of her Ministers will meet the recently formed Events Industry Alliance.

James Purnell: Neither my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State nor I have plans to meet the Events Industry Alliance. We will be pleased to consider an invitation to do so in the future.

Gambling Industry

Hugh Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment she has made of (a) the total income generated for the gambling industry by sporting events and (b) which sports generate the most income.

Richard Caborn: The Government do not hold information on total income generated for the gambling industry by sporting events.
	Horseracing remains the sport on which most bets are made.

Job Relocation (Wales)

Elfyn Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many jobs in her Department have been relocated to Wales since 2001.

Richard Caborn: None.

King James Bible

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans her Department has to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the King James version of the Bible in 2011.

David Lammy: There are not yet any plans in place to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the King James version of the Bible in 2011.

Licensing

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many appeals of refusals to grant licences by local authorities under the Licensing Act 2003 have been considered by magistrates' courts; how many have been upheld; and on how many occasions costs have been awarded against the local authority.

James Purnell: My Department does not hold information on the number of appeals considered by magistrates, the number upheld or the position regarding the award of costs.
	However, based on early feedback from licensing authorities, and in particular the Department's work with the 10 scrutiny councils, we estimate the overall level of appeals under the new regime is small and less than 1 per cent. of all applications. The number of appeals specifically against a refusal to grant a licence by a local licensing authority will be even smaller.
	We believe the appeals process is working as envisaged and we will continue to monitor progress over the coming months.

Licensing

Annette Brooke: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport pursuant to the answer of 19 December 2005, Official Report, columns 253233W, on the Licensing Act, what the current position is regarding a councillor who has made a representation on a licensing application on his own behalf as a resident attending and speaking at a licensing committee on that application.

James Purnell: As stated in the answer to the previous question, there is no express provision in the Licensing Act 2003 or the councillors code of conduct which precludes a councillor who has made representations on his own behalf from attending and speaking at a licensing committee on that application either as a resident or as a representative of other residents. However, in the planning case of Richardson and Orme v. North Yorkshire county council and others [2003 EWCA Civ 1860], the Court of Appeal confirmed that it is a consequence of the code that, in circumstances where a councillor has a prejudicial interest in a matter, he is required to withdraw from the committee meeting at which that matter is discussed. This would not preclude the councillor from giving written representations to the committee or asking a colleague to speak on his behalf to it.
	My officials are discussing with colleagues in the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister the precise application of the code and the Court of Appeal judgment to the licensing regime. Operation of the rules is a matter for local authorities and their members, taking into account the relevant legislation.

Licensing

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what guidance she has issued to (a) local authorities and (b) the Magistrates Association concerning the Licensing Act 2003.

James Purnell: The Government have not issued guidance to the Magistrates Association concerning the Licensing Act 2003 (the 2003 Act). Guidance has been issued to licensing authorities (who are mainly local authorities) under Section 182 of the 2003 Act. It is available from: www.culture.gov.uk/global/publications/archive_2004/guidance_issued_under_section_182_of_ the_licensing_act_2003.htm.

Lisbon Agenda

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what policies her Department has adopted to assist the United Kingdom's fulfilment of the Lisbon Agenda criteria.

James Purnell: The Government strongly support the renewed Lisbon focus on jobs and growth as the best way to meet the challenges of globalisation and boost prosperity and living standards for all. The UK National Reform programme details our policy response to these challenges. My Department is fully engaged in the Government-wide commitment to better regulation and is also playing a key part in raising skills levels, particularly in the art and creative sectors. My Department also has a number of projects connected to the PSA target to maximise the contribution which tourism and the creative and leisure industries can make to the economy which will also help the UK to achieve its Lisbon Agenda targets.
	We expect the spring Council in March to emphasise the importance of implementation of national commitments to reform.

Lottery Funding

Anne Snelgrove: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions she has had with the Lottery distributing bodies on the funding of voluntary and community sector organisations after 2009.

Richard Caborn: None. However, the Big Lottery Fund, the operating name of the National Lottery Charities Board and the New Opportunities Fund, working jointly together, has given an undertaking that 6070 per cent. of its funding will go directly to voluntary and community sector organisations.

Olympics 2012

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what the value is of contracts awarded by the (a) London Development Agency and (b) Transport for London for the 2012 London Olympics; and what proportion of contracts have been awarded to black and ethnic minority businesses.

Richard Caborn: Two contracts have been let by the London Development Agency (LDA) up to the value of 236.8 million. These are for work for undergrounding powerlines and for the Olympic park designers. Both contracts are for specialised services, and were awarded under European Union procurement rules. Neither went to contractors or suppliers who are black, asian and minority ethnic (BAME) owned. Transport for London has not let any contracts that solely relate to the 2012 games.
	Government, the Mayor and the LDA are keen to ensure that London and UK businesses, including BAME led businesses, are successful in accessing contracting and subcontracting opportunities associated with the Olympics.
	The LDA is establishing BAME and SME training programmes to ensure these businesses have the requisite skills to bid for contracts.

Princess Diana Memorial Fountain

Don Foster: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what estimate she has made of the total cost of repairing the cracks in the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain; and if she will make a statement.

Tessa Jowell: Two types of cracks have appeared in the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, but they pose no threat to the integrity of the structure. The Royal Parks Agency will continue to monitor the situation, but no remedial action is anticipated.
	The memorial is constructed of 545 blocks of Cornish granite dowelled into a reinforced concrete foundation.
	Watermarks, or natural colour seams, have appeared in three of the slabs of granite.
	Hairline cracks have appeared in the grouted joints between some of the blocks, but the structure is designed to tolerate the natural movement which has caused this. The cracks do not extend to the stonework and do not affect the waterproofing of the structure, which is ensured by a compressible seal beneath the joints.
	To combat the wear and tear of regular pressure washing and natural weathering, it will be necessary to replace up to five metres of grout on the memorial annually at a cost of around 1,000. This work will be done during the annual maintenance shutdown in November.

Sports Funding

Hugh Robertson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much was made available for high performance sports from (a) lottery funding and (b) central Government to (i) UK Sport, (ii) Sport England and (iii) the Northern Ireland Sports Council in (A) 200405 and (B) 200506.

Richard Caborn: Lottery and exchequer funding made available for high performance sport during the period 200405 and 200506 was as follows:
	
		
			  200405 200506 
		
		
			 UK Sport Lottery 14,295,797 16,203,884 
			 UK Sport Exchequer 16,149,395 15,421,611 
			 Sport England Lottery 44,125,089 35,900,000 
			 Sport England Exchequer 3,000,000 4,000,000 
		
	
	For UK Sport, lottery funding was primarily distributed to high performance sports through the World Class Performance Programme. Exchequer funding was allocated to the World Class Operations Programme and Elite Coaching.
	For Sport England, Exchequer funding was allocated to the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme. Lottery funding was allocated to the English Institute of Sport and to the high performance element of the National Governing Bodies' Whole Sport and one Stop Plans. In addition to the above figures, UK Sport has distributed Exchequer funds of 2,028,010 in 200405 and 726,500 in 200506 to help modernise National Governing Bodies.
	The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has no responsibility for distributing funds to the Sports Council for Northern Ireland. Exchequer funding for the Sports Council for Northern Ireland is allocated by the Northern Ireland Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and it also receives 2.6 per cent. of sport's share of the national lottery.

Television Licence

Jo Swinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans she has to change the arrangement whereby parliamentary and Government offices do not need a television licence for each set used in office and estate buildings.

James Purnell: The television licensing legislation makes no specific provision in relation to parliamentary or Government offices, but it is a principle of constitutional law that an Act of Parliament does not bind the Crown unless and to the extent specified in the Act. I understand that the BBC as licensing authority takes the view that the installation and use of television sets by servants or agents of the Crown for official purposes does not require a television licence. The Government have no plans for any legislation to change this.

Television Licence

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many instances of (a) physical assault and (b) criminal damage were carried out on personnel investigating television licence fee evasion in Northern Ireland in 2005.

James Purnell: The BBC has statutory responsibility for the administration of the television licensing system and TV Licensing carries out the day to day administration under contract to the Corporation. I have therefore asked the BBC's head of revenue management to consider the questions raised by the hon. Member and to write to him direct. Copies of the reply will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

Television Licence

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much has been collected in television licence fees in 200506 from Coventry, South.

James Purnell: TV Licensing, who administer the television licensing system as agents of the BBC, are not able to provide geographical breakdowns of TV licence fee revenue. However, the UK figure for the financial year 200405, which is the last audited figure, shows that the revenue generated was 2,940.3 million.

Tourism

Malcolm Moss: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment she has made of the impact on the tourism industry of staging (a) cultural events and (b) sporting events.

James Purnell: Cultural and sporting tourism are vital elements of the UK's domestic and inbound tourism offers, and are prominent in the marketing and promotional material of organisations which support British tourism at national, regional and local levels.
	At national level, cultural and sporting events are central to the work of VisitBritain, both in overseas markets, and in marketing England domestically under the guidance of the England Marketing Advisory Board. A wide range of cultural events are promoted in this way. VisitBritain estimates that 1.6 million overseas visitors to Britain either watched or participated in a sporting event in 2002, spending 1.1 billion during their stays, and the high profile of sport in VisitBritain's marketing work reflects that economic importance.
	The London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in 2012, and the wide range of cultural events which will precede them, will of course provide further opportunities for the British tourism industry. Plans for making the best use of such events for the benefit of the visitor economy will form an important element of my Department's Tourism 2012 strategy. A wide public consultation on that strategy will commence shortly.

Treasure

Don Foster: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment she has made of the effect of finds liaison officers on the level of reporting of treasure finds since 2003; and if she will make a statement.

David Lammy: The portable antiquities scheme plays a major role in supporting the Treasure Act through its network of finds liaison officers. It is largely down to their work that we have seen a substantial rise in the reporting rate of treasure finds.
	In areas where a finds liaison officer was appointed for the first time in 2003, there was an average fivefold increase in the number of treasure finds reported in the following reporting year. This has contributed to a continuing upward trend of a twofold increase for England and Wales as a whole since 2003.

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Afghanistan

Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development pursuant to the oral answer of 1 March 2006, Official Report, column 243, on Afghanistan, if he will list his Department's proposed development partners in Helmand.

Gareth Thomas: Through DFID support, the Government of Afghanistan's National Programmes will extend their reach in Helmand. Those programmes that are already active in the province are only active in certain districts. The National programmes operate by engaging implementing partners to deliver their programmes on the ground. As we have not yet identified which of these National Programmes we will support, it is not possible to identify the implementing partners we will be indirectly supporting. However, the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAG) and Mercy Corps are ready to start work under the Microfinance Investment Services Facility for Afghanistan (MISFA). BRAG is also an implementing partner for the National Solidarity Programme in Helmand. It is possible DFID will fund both of these programmes through its planned rural development programme in Helmand.
	We are also working with a number of organisations that specialise in community outreach and livelihood development. These are: The Tribal Liaison Office; Islamic ReliefUK; Afghanistan Reconstruction and Planning Department; Afghanistan National Construction Co-ordination and the Southern Afghanistan Development Association.

Afghanistan

Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development pursuant to the oral answer of 1 March 2006, Official Report, column 243, on Afghanistan, what conditions must be met before he considers that it will be safe for officials from his Department to work in Helmand.

Gareth Thomas: DFID has a duty of care to all its employees and careful consideration is given to their safety and security. For DFID staff to be deployed to Helmand, a number of mandatory security arrangements will need to be in place. At a minimum these security arrangements will match those provided by other Government Departments involved in the civilian deployment to Helmand.
	For all staff working in Afghanistan, DFID already has stringent security procedures in place. All DFID staff must comply with these at all times. Any staff deployed to Helmand would also be subject to these procedures. These include mandatory hostile environment training; briefing packs prior to arrival containing security advice and details of evacuation procedures; professional security briefing on arrival in Afghanistan; protected accommodation; armoured vehicles with armed protection; provision of close protection for medium and high risk movements; and a location notification system which tracks all staff movement 24 hours per day. In the event of an emergency, DFID also has access to International Security Assistance Force and Coalition forces military assistance. An on-going risk assessment is in place to ensure that these procedures continue to be both appropriate and adequate.

Afghanistan

Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development pursuant to the oral answer of 1 March 2006, Official Report, column 243, on Afghanistan, who will decide whether the security situation in Helmand enables his Department and its development partners to work safely on the ground.

Gareth Thomas: Based on advice from a number of sources, including the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Security Management Directorate Overseas Security Adviser, the DFID Permanent Secretary will decide whether security permits deployment of DFID staff in Helmand province. We recognise the responsibility to share information with development partners to enable them to minimise security related risks, but the final decision on their deployment to Helmand must lie with development partners themselves.

Afghanistan

Tony Baldry: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many UK-based staff he expects will work in Helmand over the next five years.

Gareth Thomas: UK deployments to Helmand are part of a comprehensive NATO-led package. Decisions on timing are still being considered, but I anticipate initial deployment of a full time DFID Development Adviser and the short-term deployment of up to four technical specialists from the Post Conflict Reconstruction Unit. Decisions about future deployment will be dependent on assessments of the operating environment, particularly regarding security. We also expect regular visits to Helmand from DFID staff working in our office in Kabul.

Afghanistan/Iraq

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development which non-governmental organisations the UK funds which operate in (a) Afghanistan and (b) Iraq; and how much funding has been allocated for these activities in each of the last four years.

Hilary Benn: DFID is currently funding non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Iraq through two principal mechanisms: the Political Participation Fund and the Civil Society Fund.
	The 5 million Iraq Civil Society Fund (CSF) supports projects that strengthen the capacity of Iraqi civil society organisations through partnerships with international NGOs. Projects funded include building women's leadership capacity, training for Iraqi trade union leaders, developing child rights, social work training and education about the risks of mines. Support has been given to Christian Aid, Save the Children (UK), Mines Advisory Group (MAG), Help Age International, Women for Women International, Salvation Army, International Centre for Trade Union Rights, UNISON and the Women's National Commission. These partners have, in turn, supported a range of Iraqi partner organisations.
	The 7.5 million Political Participation Fund (PPF) provides grants to grass-roots Iraqi civil society organisations to enable potentially marginalised groups to participate in the political process. Projects funded include an NGO conference, human rights conference attended by Ann Clwyd MP, campaign to encourage women to register for the elections, media, elections training, and campaigns and workshops on the constitution and referendum. Under the PPF, the international NGOs we have supported are AMAR, Arab Gulf Studies Centre, Institute of War and Peace Reporting (IWPR), and the Irish Human Rights Network.
	We are also providing funding directly to:
	BBC World Service Trust, to strengthen independent TV and radio broadcasting in southern Iraq
	ILAC, to support development of the Iraqi justice sector
	Prior to 2004, DFID provided long term project support to AMAR, ACORN, CARE, Christian Aid, and Save the Children (UK) for their work in Iraq. Immediately after the conflict in April 2003, we provided emergency humanitarian support through ACTED, AMAR, CARE, 4RS, GOAL, Help Age International, International Medical Corps (IMC), MedAir, Merlin, Mines Advisory Group (MAG), Muslim Hands, People in Need Foundation, Save the Children (UK), Solidarities, and War Child. We also contributed 28.5 million to the International Red Cross for their humanitarian appeals during 200305.
	The following table shows our disbursements to NGOs in Iraq during the last four financial years:
	
		 million
		
			  200203 200304 200405 200506(23) 
		
		
			 Long Term NGO Project Support 2.4 0.7 0.7 0.4 
			 Emergency NGO Humanitarian Assistance  4.4 1 0.2 
			 Civil Society Fund (CSF)   2.1 1.7 
			 Political Participation Fund (PPF)   1.7 1 
			 BBC-WST   1.6 2.5 
			 ILAC   1.4 0.6 
			 International Red Cross Appeals 1.5 17 10  
			 Total 3.9 22.1 18.5 6.4 
		
	
	(23) To date.
	DFID are funding the following NGOs which operate in Afghanistan:
	Aga Khan Foundation
	Afghan Aid
	Halo Trust
	Tearfund
	WOMANKIND
	Afghan Action
	Human Rights Council
	BBC World Service Trust
	CEDAW
	Action Aid
	Afghan's Women's Council
	Afghan Civil Society Forum
	Concern
	DACAAR,
	Relief International
	Mercy Corps,
	Catholic Relief Services,
	Swiss Peace
	Co-ordination for Humanitarian Assistance
	The following table provides figures for bilateral funding provided by DFID to non-governmental organisations working in Afghanistan in each year since 2001.
	
		
			   million 
		
		
			 200102 22.5 
			 200203 5.8 
			 200304 2.5 
			 200405 5.5 
			 200506 5.8 
		
	
	DFID also provides multilateral funds to non-governmental organisations through Partnership Programme Agreements (PPAs). PPAs are long-term agreements of three to five years with civil society organisations who have a strong track record of work in international development and an ability to make a contribution to achieving the Millennium Development Goals.
	As PPA funds are unearmarked, we cannot directly attribute funding to specific activities or countries. OXFAM, ActionAid, Christian Aid, and Save the Children UK however all have projects in Afghanistan and have received a total of 26.4 million this financial year through their Partnership Programme Agreements with DFID.

African Union

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if he will make a statement on the African Union's work on conflict prevention.

Hilary Benn: Supporting African leadership on conflict prevention, management, and peace building is the key to long-term success in improving peace and security in Africa. The African Union (AU)'s Peace and Security Council (PSC) protocol provides the framework for the African Union's work in this area. The 15-member PSC provides political direction and oversight to the AU's work on peace and security. The AU has agreed a Common Africa Defence and Security Policy and has produced a Strategic Plan and Budget (agreed in July and December 2004 respectively) that sets out the priorities in the peace and security agenda until 2007. Key elements include: establishing a Panel of the Wise (PW) of eminent Africans to engage in preventive diplomacy and mediation; an Africa Standby Force (ASF) to give the PSC the ability to undertake peace support operations; and a Continental Early Warning System (CEWS) to inform and advise the PSC on preventive action. The Africa Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) will support AU member states in setting and applying standards to strengthen the links between development, governance and peace and security. The AU is already playing a key role in addressing conflicts on the continentas evidenced by its work in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Comoros, the Cote d'lvoire, Togo and Sudan.
	UK funds and activities have focused on supporting four priority areas essential for putting this system into placesupport to the Conflict Management Centre in the Peace and Security Directorate of the AU Commission, help in operationalising the Africa Standby Force, funding and technical support to AU peace support operations, and support to the development of the AU's Continental Early Warning System. We have also provided financial and practical support to the African Union mission in Darfur.

African Union

Stephen Hepburn: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development which 10 countries received most in aid from the UK in each year since 1997; and how much each received.

Hilary Benn: The following table details the top 10 recipients of bilateral Official Development Assistance (ODA) from the UK in each year since 1997 along with the amount each country received:
	
		Table 1: Top ten recipients of UK bilateral official development assistance --  millions
		
			 1997 1998 1999 2000 
		
		
			 India 94 India 113 India 81 Uganda 143 
			 Guyana 92 Tanzania 96 Bangladesh 71 India 135 
			 Zambia 57 Uganda 64 Uganda 60 Tanzania 101 
			 Uganda 48 Bangladesh 60 Ghana 57 Zambia 74 
			 Mozambique 44 Montserrat 39 Tanzania 55 Bangladesh 68 
			 Bangladesh 43 Ghana 39 Malawi 48 Malawi 64 
			 Tanzania 41 Malawi 34 Zambia 39 States of the ex-Yugoslavia 63 
			 Indonesia 35 China 33 South Africa 39 China 55 
			 Russia 34 Russia 33 China 37 Mozambique 55 
			 States of the Ex-Yugoslavia 31 South Africa 33 Kenya 34 Ghana 53 
		
	
	
		
			 2001 2002 2003 2004 
		
		
			 Tanzania 201 Serbia and Montenegro 306 India 202 India 202 
			 Mozambique 129 India 229 Tanzania 175 Congo Dem. Rep. 164 
			 India 121 Afghanistan 87 Bangladesh 160 Zambia 154 
			 Bangladesh 86 Ghana 82 Iraq 110 Iraq 150 
			 Ghana 68 Tanzania 69 Ghana 80 Ghana 144 
			 Uganda 57 Bangladesh 68 South Africa 75 Bangladesh 138 
			 Malawi 46 Peru 56 Pakistan 69 Afghanistan 122 
			 Zambia 39 Uganda 56 Malawi 68 Tanzania 118 
			 Kenya 38 Pakistan 45 Uganda 64 Ethiopia 80 
			 Sierra Leone 35 Kenya 36 Afghanistan 60 Nigeria 69 
		
	
	Source:
	Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development: Development Assistance Committee Database

Aid

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much aid the UK has given to (a) Gibraltar, (b) British overseas territories and (c) Commonwealth countries in each of the last seven years.

Gareth Thomas: I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to him on 12 December 2005; Official Report, column 1625W.
	Assistance provided to Commonwealth countries over the same period is set out in the following table:
	
		
			 Country 199899 19992000 200001 200102 200203 200304 200405 
		
		
			 Antigua and Barbuda 626,275 5,604,912 5,220,288 1,761,105 1,494,592 95,324 42,343 
			 Bahamas -995 34,622 14,988 18,102 19,606 912  
			 Bangladesh 65,926,654 69,670,233 74,017,421 60,303,479 73,173,575 155,371,484 149,144,139 
			 Barbados 533,180 1,049,395 199,164 323,448 857,318 2,624,697 177,410 
			 Belize 9,357,252 14,876,223 8,135,547 5,541,272 11,080,823 1,670,144 1,641,795 
			 Botswana 3,275,016 3,044,756 2,481,372 1,990,184 1,094,251 503,525 227,529 
			 Brunei 6,344 6,343 6,072 18,521 21,300 3,656 2,768 
			 Cameroon 3,588,654 7,004,879 6,999,187 6,226,119 31,544,574 10,337,660 16,546,910 
			 Cyprus 379,970 188,237 146,557 93,718 58,939 8,601 16,142 
			 Dominica 2,530,695 2,480,524 1,174,451 990,116 1,832,549 1,286,590 1,086,771 
			 Fiji 441,071 392,559 425,234 432,686 377,847 320,381 295,957 
			 Gambia, The 979,373 1,369,957 1,747,554 2,043,399 893,772 428,659 406,379 
			 Ghana 62,856,020 51,886,968 74,699,871 54,479,208 90,708,547 77,950,715 136,323,692 
			 Grenada 1,140,991 922,737 615,736 443,696 501,977 566,380 6,022,139 
			 Guyana 22,962,429 16,232,846 31,001,814 16,429,518 14,952,149 17,857,683 8,786,445 
			 India 109,256,249 104,617,238 125,478,918 199,163,335 183,446,195 243,948,057 269,266,001 
			 Jamaica 10,140,356 9,042,899 7,550,116 8,927,239 8,613,623 5,366,598 9,677,149 
			 Kenya 41,537,762 32,358,807 62,155,031 33,988,937 63,023,801 28,452,542 37,823,762 
			 Kiribati 316,282 183,759 47,247 49,990 42,205 52,605 75,489 
			 Lesotho 4,149,915 2,939,031 2,257,924 2,717,516 2,847,562 3,317,981 3,521,501 
			 Malawi 52,550,450 49,057,721 55,143,933 49,562,725 52,210,622 57,343,703 56,428,612 
			 Malaysia 960,146 1,086,323 670,608 528,969 408,887 256,280 4,199,054 
			 Maldives 309,611 292,189 285,763 82,580 195,271 199,068 807,557 
			 Malta 146,385 99,173 121,759 71,202 118,730 12,963  
			 Mauritius 1,194,795 569,798 1,681,458 2,545,548 674,641 169,236 112,230 
			 Mozambique 28,901,817 70,642,789 43,303,817 134,132,607 39,100,998 36,712,943 47,940,379 
			 Namibia 3,861,143 3,571,224 2,712,008 2,016,976 2,205,927 1,366,045 1,201,407 
			 Nigeria 11,126,755 14,395,262 15,939,505 20,560,716 29,286,656 32,629,790 78,766,992 
			 Pakistan 26,907,092 23,472,009 15,872,041 44,838,085 46,851,975 66,298,721 55,279,016 
			 Papua New Guinea 13,068,358 3,136,581 1,245,314 2,464,955 798,430 1,173  
			 Seychelles 216,329 300,445 33,471 66,659 42,688 11,675 9,806 
			 Sierra Leone 9,148,934 29,798,282 34,113,424 36,741,313 32,189,598 34,280,436 27,430,790 
			 Singapore 133,321 139,384 166,078 82,759 87,259 72,584 41,744 
			 Solomon Islands 813,407 719,347 436,599 457,728 566,850 461,586 375,753 
			 South Africa, Republic of 34,666,476 47,795,682 36,422,992 43,812,456 57,195,603 93,321,379 53,734,635 
			 Sri Lanka 7,864,367 7,827,279 10,570,036 7,537,815 8,301,503 9,544,357 7,216,858 
			 St. Kitts-Nevis 609,256 98,751 1,699 1,038 18,474 34,992 681 
			 St. Lucia 442,227 886,098 1,007,038 738,446 682,052 441,234 361,536 
			 St. Vincent and Grenadines 681,052 311,217 216,557 116,524 2,686,085 9,230 11,690 
			 Swaziland 3,980,703 3,532,727 2,645,864 1,282,037 1,343,372 906,510 664,888 
			 Tanzania 77,886,526 74,708,627 111,737,069 205,492,884 98,347,546 162,372,230 129,976,650 
			 Tonga 113,025 98,652 116,076 100,522 37,146 548  
			 Trinidad and Tobago 258,010 253,724 236,512 177,033 180,683 90,973 186,076 
			 Tuvalu 33,138 28,311 8,573 25,376 28,183 12,253 787 
			 Uganda 64,251,372 89,977,583 97,427,499 68,091,074 54,040,925 59,557,656 61,454,045 
			 Vanuatu 2,695,528 109,970 28,268 36,809 65,103 221,921 23,016 
			 Western Samoa 7,000  14,760 
			 Zambia 33,537,469 46,642,533 93,342,940 59,202,793 45,139,594 32,304,171 163,537,392 
			 Totals Commonwealth 716,368,182 793,458,602 929,876,155 1,076,709,212 959,390,005 1,138,797,853 1,330,845,917

Burma

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what HIV/AIDS projects in Burma are supported by the British Government.

Gareth Thomas: DFID supports work on HIV/AIDS in Burma through the UN-managed, multi-donor Fund for HIV/AIDS in Myanmar (FHAM), to which DFID is the main contributor (at 10 million over three years from 2004 to 2006). I shall arrange for copies of the latest progress report, entitled Joint Programme for HIV/AIDS in Myanmar Progress Report 20032004 and Fund for HIV/AIDS in Myanmar (FHAM) Annual Progress Report April 2004 to March 2005, which includes a full list of the fund's activities, to be placed in the Libraries of the House.

Chernobyl

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what (a) financial and (b) other assistance his Department has given in the last 12 months to the Government of Ukraine to ameliorate the health and other problems experienced by families as a consequence of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident; and if he will make a statement.

Hilary Benn: DFID has provided assistance to those affected by the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident through our share of the nuclear safety component of the European Community's (EC) Technical Assistance to the Commonwealth of Independent States (TACIS) programme. This provides assistance to 12 countries in Eastern Europe and central Asia (in 2005 the UK's share of EC external assistance was 17.06 per cent.). The 2005 programme includes 17.9 million for Ukraine. Its main aim is to attain the highest level of nuclear safety, including the management of the Chernobyl site. In addition the programme includes 1.5 million for restarting previous agriculture activities and creating new jobs for those in the areas affected by the accident.
	DFID has not provided bilateral support for this specific purpose. However, other UK Government Departments have provided assistance bilaterally, as well as through the European Community, to the Government of Ukraine and to neighbouring countries to help to address the health and other problems experienced by families as a consequence of the accident at Chernobyl. Details of this assistance can be found in The Global PartnershipProgress during 2005 on the UK's programmes to address nuclear, chemical and biological legacies in the Former Soviet Union (URN 05/373).
	Copies are available in the Libraries of the House and/or can be downloaded from www.dti.gov.uk/energy/nuclear/FSU/index.shtml.

Democratic Republic of Congo

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what representations he has received on child abuse by religious sects in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Hilary Benn: The Government are concerned by reports from non-governmental organisations (NGO)s and the media, that children in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and elsewhere are being accused of 'sorcery' and then abused by members of revivalist churches. These reports indicate that the accused children, usually from impoverished families, are physically or mentally abused in order to 'cleanse' them of evil spirits.
	As part of our Presidency of the European Union, the UK led an initiative to raise awareness of the problem of so-called 'child witches' in the DRC, and we continue to push the Congolese government for action in protecting these children as well as other vulnerable groups.

Democratic Republic of Congo

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps are being taken by his Department to assist children who are abused as witches in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Hilary Benn: The UK has frequently reminded the Congolese authorities of the need to protect vulnerable groups, including children accused of sorcery. As part of our Presidency of the European Union, the UK led an initiative to raise awareness of the problem of so-called 'child witches' in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Along with our EU partners, DFID will continue to work with civil society groups, established churches and the Congolese government and to push for further action to address this problem and bring those who abuse children to justice. The British Embassy in Kinshasa's Small Grants Scheme has also supported local organisations providing direct support to children accused of sorcery.

Departmental Staffing

Elfyn Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many jobs in his Department have been relocated to Wales since 2001.

Hilary Benn: None.

Disaster Relief

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps have been taken by his Department to ensure a rapid and efficient delivery of acute phase relief in disaster relief operations.

Gareth Thomas: DFID is a leading donor in the provision of disaster relief. We have a dedicated humanitarian response team, including an immediate operational capacity ready to deploy 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with specialists, equipment and supplies as required. Our procedures and funding mechanisms are streamlined and rapid. This delivery capacity has been tried and tested successfully in many such disasters over the years, including the Asian tsunami in 200405 and the Pakistan earthquake in 2005.
	For example, in Pakistan DFID gave considerable support for helicopters to help ensure relief items reached remote areas quickly, including three Chinook helicopters through the Ministry of Defence from 26 October until 28 November 2005, 1 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) for helicopters, logistics support, vehicles, and coordination and 1.7 million to the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) for helicopters. We also contracted four helicopters as part of a 5.5 million package of support to the UN.
	In addition to helicopters, DFID channelled a further 10.8 million through United Nations agencies in Pakistan and provided experts and other support to the UN to help fill critical gaps in their capacity, including vehicles and equipment.
	DFID also helped the transportation of relief supplies for the UK Disasters Emergency Committee by providing 78 relief flights.
	We have also taken a lead in improving the international response. On 9 March, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development joined Kofi Annan in New York to announce the launch of the new Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF): $193 million to enable the UN to respond more rapidly in the critical early phases of humanitarian disasters. DFID has been a leading proponent of this new measure and is the largest single contributor at $70 million (40 million) a year.

Farmers (Africa)

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what programmes his Department funds to promote the commercial competitiveness of small-scale African farmers.

Hilary Benn: Promoting commercial competitiveness of small-scale farmers is critical to boosting growth and poverty reduction in Africa. Action is needed in three key areas: improving policies and public spending in support of small-scale farming; developing the business environment and infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, so that markets function more effectively for small farmers; and improving the productivity of agriculture and access to markets. DFID supports programmes in all these areas.
	For example, in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Ghana and Nigeria, we are helping governments to improve agricultural policy and public spending. This will help ensure that government and donor funds are more effectively used for agricultural development.
	DFID supports a range of programmes to develop the business environment which help improve commercial competitiveness of small-scale farmers. We are providing $30 million to the Investment Climate Facility as an important part of this. DFID has helped improve rural infrastructure in several countries including Ghana, Nigeria and Sierra Leone, bringing farmers closer to markets.
	DFID also supports the Business Linkages Challenge Fund, which for example, provided a grant of 290,000 to the Great Lakes Cotton Company and Clark Cotton in Malawi (which drew in a private sector contribution of 1,319,000) enabling them to set up new and sustained business relationships with more than 180,000 smallholder farmers.
	DFID has been at the forefront of pushing for a fairer world trading system and for an ambitious, development-focused outcome of the Doha Development Round of WorldTrade Organisation (WTO) negotiations. Ending cotton subsidies would increase world prices by between 10 and 30 per cent. bringing benefit to many small-scale farmers in West and Central Africa. DFID has provided trade negotiation support to the group of Least Developed Countries (LDC) and its Chair (Zambia). DFID is also working with major UK, European and Southern African food retailers, small producer organisations and standard setting bodies to find ways of improving African producers' access to high value export markets.
	DFID support to agricultural research and development in Africa through international and sub-regional research organisations is another important contribution to boosting agricultural productivity and increasing the gains to small-scale farmers from their investments. Some 140 million is being provided for this over the next five years.

Fast Track Initiative

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Fast Track Initiative in mobilising funding for African nations.

Hilary Benn: Current African countries supported under the Fast Track Initiative (FTI) framework include Burkina Faso, Guinea, Madagascar, Niger, Djibouti, Mauritania, Ethiopia, the Gambia, Kenya, Mozambique, Ghana, and Lesotho.
	The FTI has clearly helped additional resources to flow into FTI countries. On average, these countries have seen an increase of 43 per cent. in external financing for basic education within the first year of joining FTI. More importantly, the FTI is having a positive impact on external financing for low income countries as a whole.
	G8 partners are committed to continue to support the FTI, particularly Africa. We have increased our support to the FTI to 50 million over the next three years and the United States Government have announced US$62 million for education in FTI countries in Africa. We have urged other G8 countries to increase their support for education within the FTI framework, either directly through the Catalytic Fund or by increasing their support for education in FTI countries.

Gun Trade

Anne Snelgrove: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment his Department has made of the impact of the trade in small guns on developing countries.

Gareth Thomas: The Government recognise the devastating effect that the uncontrolled proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) has on developing countries. Preventing the illicit trade in SALW is crucial to dealing with the problem. Furthermore, most illegally-held arms begin their lives as legal exports. In combating the illicit trade it is therefore vital to regulate the licit trade.
	Over the last two years, DFID, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD), under the SALW strategy of the Global Conflict Prevention Pool (GCPP), have supported the following work:
	Research into the effects of armed violence and arms availability on poverty.
	Building political consensus for the development of tighter controls on government-authorised transfers of SALW.
	The research found the impact of armed violence and arms availability on development to be complex and multi-faceted. It is clear that the global arms trade tends to divert resources away from economic growth and development and that irresponsible arms transfers increase human insecurity and the risk of violent conflict.
	Armed violence has had negative impacts in terms of displacement, damage to education, health, and agriculture, and the impoverishment of large sections of communities and populations. For example:
	In almost all the internal conflicts examined, gross domestic product (GDP) declined under the impact of armed violence;
	High levels of armed violence in cities exacerbate economic inequality and social exclusion;
	Armed violence creates cycles of insecurity that are hard to break, and which have long-term poverty implications;
	In situations where armed violence persists, an alternative economy develops. Such patterns, including trafficking in drugs, conflict minerals and arms are difficult to reverse.
	High levels of armed violence damage good governance and democracy by strengthening the hand of criminal elements and corrupt politicians.
	The UK has been working to build support for stronger controls on the transfers of SALW. We have built support from the ground up, through regional workshops and bilateral consultations. Supported by a growing number of states and civil society organisations, we are pushing for agreement on commonly accepted standards to guide transfers of SALW. We are doing so within the framework of the UN Programme of Action (PoA) on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms, which is due to be reviewed this summer. We also support calls for a negotiated, legally-binding Arms Trade Treaty, covering all conventional weapons.

Health Care (Africa)

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what measures have been taken towards his Department's target of 67 per cent. of births in Africa being assisted by skilled birth attendants by 2006.

Hilary Benn: DFID recognises the importance of skilled attendants at birth to prevent deaths and injury of mothers and children. The 2004 DFID strategy Reducing Maternal Deaths: Evidence and Action highlights that skilled attendants can only work effectively within a functioning health service with a proper network of services and referrals that is accessible to all women. Therefore, DFID's approach is to support country Governments in their efforts to develop their overall health services including access to skilled attendants for women giving birth.
	The UK invests substantially in helping countries in sub-Saharan Africa develop their health services; for example, we support international groups such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), provide direct support to country Government's overall and health budgets, and fund some targeted projects. We also fund a lot of operational research.
	In addition to supporting Government health plans, DFID also invests in programmes tackling specific issues. The shortage of health care workers in many African countries is a barrier to improving access to skilled birth attendants. In Malawi, where the shortage is particularly severe, we are supporting the Government's ambitious plans to tackle the problem. DFID is providing 100 million to the Malawian health sector55 million of which is earmarked for the emergency human resources programme which aims to improve recruitment and retention of health workers.
	DFID is committed to a year on year increase in spending on maternal health. DFID's bilateral expenditure (excluding spend through general poverty reduction budget support) on programmes marked as contributing towards improving maternal health has increased by 34 per cent. over the last three years (and by 41 per cent. if reproductive health services which contribute to reducing maternal mortality are included).

Health Care (Africa)

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what representations he has made to the governments of African countries on increasing the priority given to health care.

Hilary Benn: The average spend on health in many developing countries in Africa is well below the $3540 per capita that the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommend is necessary for essential health services. That is why the UK Presidencies of the G8 and EU last year focused on increasing the amount of aid provided to support African plans for poverty reduction, including for improving health services. G8 countries committed to provide an additional $25 billion by 2010 and to support the removal of health user fees where countries wish to do so. African countries, for their part, committed to increase domestic resources channelled to development and develop long-term plans, including for health.
	DFID helps countries to strengthen their health services both through financial assistance and discussions about budget support with partner governments covering the priorities given to health in budget allocation.
	During my recent visits to Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Rwanda I discussed the importance of prioritising health care. Through visits to clinics in Kenya and Ethiopia earlier this year, I saw for myself how these governments are trying to tackle health care challenges.

HIV/AIDS

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of his Department's work to reduce HIV/AIDS in (a) Sierra Leone, (b) the Mano River region and (c) the whole of Africa; and if he will make a statement.

Hilary Benn: HIV/AIDS is a serious problem and DFID is working hard with African country Governments and international agencies to tackle it. In 2004, Taking Action: The UK Government's Strategy for Tackling HIV and AIDS in the Developing World was launched. An interim evaluation of implementation of the strategy is underway but results are not yet available. During 2006, reports will be produced, including a mapping of UK Government programmes on HIV and AIDS, a working paper on reaching women, children and vulnerable groups, and country case studies. This interim evaluation will provide preliminary indications of progress.
	In Sierra Leone, DFID's focus is on improving governance and security, both of which impact on the causes and effects of HIV and AIDS. In addition, DFID helps organisations in Sierra Leone to raise awareness in young people about HIV and AIDS issues and improve access to condoms. Annual reviews show that knowledge of HIV and AIDS among young people is impressive.
	In the broader Mano River region, DFID does not have full development programmes in either Guinea or Liberia, but does provide humanitarian assistance to both these countries. However, both countries have accessed funding through the Global Fund to fight AIDS, TB and Malaria (GFATM)$9.6million to Guinea and $7.6 million to Liberia. DFID has committed 359 million until 2008 to GFATM and supports the secretariat in the development of performance measures to better demonstrate its results and improve its effectiveness.
	DFID is continuing to support improvements to funding and international co-ordination of HIV and AIDS control. For example, we have doubled our financing to the Joint United Nations programme for HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) to support progress on the Global Task Team and are co-chairing the Global Steering Committee on Scaling Up towards Universal Access which will be of benefit to all poor countries including those in West Africa. DFID has committed to spending 1.5 billion to support AIDS work between 2005 and 2008.

Iraq

Robert Wilson: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development whether the Department has incurred costs for employing private security companies in Iraq since April 2003.

Hilary Benn: From April 2003 to 28 June 2004, DFID employed two private security companies to provide security support for our programme in Iraq. The total cost to DFID was 5.6 million in 200304 and 2.7 million in 200405. Since 29 June 2004, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has managed life support provision centrally for all UK Departments working in Iraq. This life support includes security support contracts, as well as other costs such as vehicles, building work, food and accommodation for UK personnel. Each Department then reimburses the FCO for its share of the cost. DFID's share of these life support costs is estimated at 23 million in 200405 and 28 million in 200506. Without the close protection provided by private security companies, it would be impossible for DFID staff and contractors to carry out much of our work in Iraq; for example, visiting Ministries and projects outside the secure compounds in Baghdad and Basra.

Kenya

John MacDougall: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what measures are being taken to provide aid for the people in areas of Kenya affected by famine.

Hilary Benn: holding answer 10 March 2006
	Last week I increased our commitment by a further 15 million of humanitarian assistance as an emergency response to drought-hit parts of Kenya. This brings the total UK contribution to areas of Kenya affected by famine to 29.7 million since the start of the crisis in July 2004.
	The funding is channelled mainly through the UN bodies, particularly the World Food Programme and UNICEF, as well as non-governmental organisations. Two thirds of these resources are for the targeting and distribution of food aid to those most in need, channelled through the UN.
	DFID is also working with others to tackle the long term causes of chronic hunger and poverty in the region. We are in discussion with the Government of Kenya and with the UN on how to do this. Safety nets programmes for example, are being developed to deliver timely, adequate and predictable transfers of food or cash to those who were formerly dependent on food aid.

Lesotho

Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent assessment he has made of the availability of anti-retroviral drugs in Lesotho.

Hilary Benn: In the last quarter of 2005, DFID provided both financial and technical assistance to the National AIDS Secretariat to undertake a review of the HIV/AIDS response in Lesotho. That report is not yet public, but the information provided as follows is taken from it.
	Anti-retroviral treatment (ART) started in Lesotho in 2002. There are now 15 sites across the country. The Government run 11 of those sites and the Christian Health Association of Lesotho (CHAL) manages four. By September 2005, there were 3,448 people receiving treatment. The private sector does provide treatment, but there is no reliable data available. There is similarly no data for the number of children receiving treatment.
	Services are provided free through the public sector, though there is a charge of 10 Maluti (roughly equivalent to 1.00) for registration. There is significant demand for care and no apparent stigma or discrimination limiting uptake of services. Overall financing for the ART programme is relatively secure, primarily through resources provided by the Global Fund for AIDS, TB and Malaria.
	Major challenges to increasing access to treatment include the generally weak health infrastructure (per capita public health expenditure is in the region of 16.00) and a shortage of skilled health personnel in key elements of the ART programme. The World Bank and Development Co-operation Ireland are working to address these issues through their support to the Department of Health.

Madagascar

Ben Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development 
	(1)  what responsibilities for development in Madagascar he has taken over from the Small Grants Scheme since its discontinuation;
	(2)  what forms of bilateral development assistance were provided to Madagascar prior to the announcement of the decision to close the British embassy there;
	(3)  what provisions were made for the continuation of bilateral development assistance to Madagascar when the decision was taken to transfer responsibility for the administration of the Small Grants Scheme to the Foreign Office.

Hilary Benn: I refer my hon. Friend to the response I gave on 30 January 2006; Official Report, column 13W.
	DFID does not have a bilateral development programme with Madagascar, nor did it have one prior to the transfer of the Small Grants Scheme to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Our support is channelled through multilateral agencies, primarily the World Bank, European Commission and UN agencies.

Mano River Region

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much aid the United Kingdom provides to the Mano River Region countries; and what assessment he has made of the extent to which these countries are complying with the conditions of their debt relief packages.

Hilary Benn: In 200405, the UK provided a total of 36 million in bilateral assistance to countries in the Mano River Region. This comprised 27 million to Sierra Leone, 8.4 million to Liberia, and 200,000 to Guinea. The UK also provides assistance through multilateral agencies (European Commission, World Bank and UN agencies) to these countries. For 2003 (the most recent year for which data is available) the UK's share of this contribution through these agencies totalled 15.8 million (6.3 million to Sierra Leone, 1.7 million to Liberia, and 7.8 million to Guinea).
	Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea are Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) and are eligible for debt relief through the HIPC Initiative. Sierra Leone and Guinea are currently receiving interim debt relief and are progressing towards HIPC Completion Point, when they would receive irrevocable debt stock cancellation. Liberia is in arrears in its payments to the World Bank and has yet to receive interim debt relief because progress under the HIPC Initiative has been hampered to date by conflict and governance concerns. We anticipate that Liberia will start to make more rapid progress through HIPC under its new government.
	Because Sierra Leone has established a track-record of macroeconomic stability under its International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme and is implementing a full poverty reduction strategy it is expected to reach Completion Point by the end of 2006. Guinea is also making good progress on its IMF Staff Monitored Programme and could reach Completion Point in late 2006 or early 2007.

Media Training

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how much has been spent by his Department on media training in each year since 199798.

Gareth Thomas: DFID began media training for senior staff in 200506. Final figures for this year are not yet available.

Pakistan

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what progress has been made in establishing the Regional Health Emergency Response and Disaster Management Centre in Islamabad.

Gareth Thomas: Since the 8 October 2005 earthquake, the Pakistani authorities have made disaster management and disaster risk reduction a high national priority. The Pakistan Government recently announced the establishment of a National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and National Disaster Management Commission (NDMC). The NDMA will have sub authorities at provincial and district level, to respond to regional emergencies.
	Immediately following the earthquake, a Disaster Management Cell was established at the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Federal Relief Commission and the World Health Organisation (WHO). DFID provided 1,130,000 to the WHO to support this. The cell co-ordinated and managed surveillance of diseases and any responses required. It successfully detected disease outbreaks and averted life-threatening epidemics, learning important lessons from the Tsunami.
	Building on this, the Ministry of Health now has capacity for rapid response to disease outbreaks and epidemics throughout the country.

Queen's Birthday

Anne Main: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans his Department has to celebrate Her Majesty's 80th birthday; what advice he has issued to his Department's executive agencies on celebrations for the birthday; and if he will make a statement.

Gareth Thomas: The Department for International Development (DFID) will be marking Her Majesty's 80th birthday by placing a notice for staff attention on its intranet. It will be encouraging staff in its country offices overseas to take part in celebrations organised by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. The Union flag will be flown from the Department's headquarter office in Scotland on 21st April. DFID's headquarters offices in London do not have provision for flag flying.

School Twinning

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if he will make a statement on his Department's work in twinning UK schools with schools in developing countries.

Gareth Thomas: DFID funds a school linking programme, DFID Global School Partnerships, with an overall budget of 3.2 million over three years. This is administered on DFID's behalf by a British Council led consortium.
	The programme promotes partnerships between schools in the UK and schools in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. It provides advice and guidance, professional development opportunities and grants to schools that are using partnerships as a means to develop and embed a global dimension within their curriculum.
	The DFID Development Awareness Fund also supports school linking projects.

Sierra Leone

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of his Department's projects to reform the Sierra Leonean (a) armed forces, (b) police and (c) security services.

Hilary Benn: Since 1999 the UK, through the cross-Whitehall (the Ministry of Defence (MOD), the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Africa Conflict Prevention Pool (ACPP), managed by DFID, has provided in the region of 8 million of support to the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Ministry of Defence (MOD), and the Office of National Security (ONS) through the Sierra Leone Security Sector Reform Project (SILSEP).
	The SILSEP has been complemented by a parallel programme of support to the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) through the Commonwealth Community Safety and Security Project (CCSSP). This project has carried out extensive police reform since August 2000. This has resulted in the re-establishment of a more effective and accountable civilian police service which has improved safety and security, and respect for the rights of people, especially the poor.
	Confirmation of the effectiveness of the UK's intervention in Sierra Leone was the decision by the UN Security Council to withdraw the UN Peacekeeping Force (UNAMSIL) at the end of 2005. This decision was made on the basis that the SLP and the RSLAF were able to assume responsibility for protecting the country from threats to internal and external security. This is an endorsement of the progress made in reforming both institutions. No security problems have been reported since UNAMSIL's withdrawal.
	The SILSEP and the CCSSP are subject to DFID's standard internal performance management processes, which include annual and end of project reviews. The most recent assessment of the SILSEP programme undertaken in October 2005, concluded that the project continues to be successful and recommended that enhanced ownership should continue to be transferred to the institutions themselves, but that greater participation of civil society institutions on security related matters should be encouraged.

Sierra Leone

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what proportion of the people of Sierra Leone is classed as living in poverty.

Hilary Benn: The Sierra Leone Integrated Household Survey of 200304 (the latest available figures) found that 70 per cent. of the population lived below the national poverty line (Leones 2,111 a day, which is the equivalent of 0.52 a day); and 26 per cent. of the population were found to be living in extreme poverty, defined in terms of a minimum calorific intake of 2,700 calories per day.

Sierra Leone

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what proportion of Sierra Leonean children receive (a) primary and (b) secondary education.

Hilary Benn: There is currently little reliable data on enrolment rates for primary and secondary education in Sierra Leone. The following gives some indication of the situation:
	According to Ministry of Education data, 1,156,841 children are in primary school. This represents 135 per cent. of the primary age group (six to 12 years). It exceeds the group population because it includes many older pupils who have returned to school, having missed the opportunity during the civil war. It is estimated that 375,000 children of primary school age are not attending school.
	According to the Sierra Leone Information Service data, 133,475 children were in secondary school at the end of 2003.
	The following data on gross enrolment rates (percentages) is available for 2003 from the Integrated Household Survey carried out by Statistics Sierra Leone (SSL):
	
		
			  Location 
			  Urban Rural 
		
		
			 Primary school(24)   
			 Male 134 103 
			 Female 144 115 
			
			 Junior secondary school(25)   
			 Male 60 14 
			 Female 82 26 
			
			 Senior secondary school(26)   
			 Male 47 9 
			 Female 66 13 
		
	
	(24) 612 years.
	(25) 1315 years.
	(26) 1619 years.

Sub-Saharan Africa (Health Personnel)

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what help is given to sub-Saharan countries to replace and retrain health personnel recruited from those countries; and which countries (a) qualify and (b) do not qualify for this aid.

Hilary Benn: DFID provides most of its support to Africa to 16 focus countries, as outlined in its public service agreement with the Treasury. It is committed to helping country Governments strengthen their health services. Health worker shortages are a complex issue, and go beyond migration and international recruitment. There are both pull factors that attract workers away from where they are needed and push factors that motivate them to leave. That is why DFID is not only working closely with African countries but also with the UK Department of Health on both sides of this issue.
	The UK is the only developed country to implement systematic policies that explicitly prevent the targeting of developing countries in the international recruitment of health care professionals. DFID worked closely with the Department of Health to draw up a list of countries, which includes all the sub-Saharan African countries, from which the NHS does not actively recruit. In addition, the Department of Health has brokered a groundbreaking agreement for this code to apply to major players in the UK independent health care sector.
	A shortage of workers is a symptom of a health service in crisis. Health workers leave their jobs because of a lack of housing and schools in underserved areas and because of a lack of opportunity for professional career development. This is coupled with poor pay and working conditions which prevent them from doing the jobs they have been trained for, by failing, for example, to provide the required drugs and equipment. All this is exacerbated by HIV/AIDS. Workloads are heavier and health-workers themselves are dying.
	The UK invests substantially in health, supporting African country Governments to strengthen their health services and systems. We use a variety of means to do this, either through support to international agencies, direct support to Government budgets, by pooling our funds with other donors or through projects. This is complemented by operational research. For example, in Malawi, where the shortage of health workers is particularly severe, we provide 100 million support for the health sector of which 55 million is earmarked for the Emergency Human Resources programme. This programme focuses on improving recruitment and retention through salary increases for health workers, expanding training capacity; doubling the number of nurses and tripling the number of doctors in training; and using international volunteer physicians and nurse tutors while more Malawians are being trained. The programme is also bolstering human resources planning and management capacity in Malawi's Ministry of Health.

Sudan

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what plans he has to fund political education in the south of Sudan in advance of elections there.

Hilary Benn: Under the terms of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, signed on 9 January 2005, free and fair elections shall be held throughout Sudan by mid-2008. We have not yet finalised our plans for assistance to south Sudan in advance of these elections. We are working in close co-ordination with partners to ensure that the international community provides full support, including provision of political education in the south of Sudan in the run up to these elections. We are also beginning a training and capacity support programme for national political parties. The UK is providing 288 million in humanitarian and development assistance to Sudan over the period 2005 to 2008.

Sudan

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if he will make a statement on UK humanitarian aid to Sudan.

Hilary Benn: Across the whole of Darfur, there are 1.8 million internally displaced people and 3.4 million dependent on humanitarian assistance. The priority is to provide help and protection for them, and to find a political solution that will allow people to return home and rebuild their lives. In the South of Sudan the humanitarian situation remains fragile. Pockets of instability, noticeably in the Upper Nile, Eastern and Western Equatoria, have resulted in continued internal displacement.
	Although the massive humanitarian effort in Darfur has had a positive impact on malnutrition and mortality rates, the region remains highly dependant on food aid. Instability, fighting and banditry in South and West Darfur, particularly along the border zone with Chad, is severely hampering humanitarian agencies operating in those areas. Violence and attacks on humanitarian agencies' staff and assets has lead to a reduction in presence, and total withdrawals in some areas, by both the UN and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
	The UK is the second largest donor in Darfur (after the US), providing over 96 million since the crisis started in September 2003. These funds have been channelled through both UN agencies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and have meant that thousands of vulnerable people have been provided with shelter, food, water and basic health care. DFID have committed a further 67 million to humanitarian relief in Sudan in 200607. As part of this commitment, the UK is providing 40 million to the Common Humanitarian Fund (CHF), a pioneering multi-donor fund, administered by the UN humanitarian co-ordinator. This new mechanism will help enable the UN to react more quickly and more flexible to both identified and unforeseen needs, not only in Darfur but across all of Sudan.
	In addition to funding vital NGO humanitarian programmes in the South, the UK is providing financial support to an emergency response fund for the South to deal with emergencies, such as the cholera outbreak. For longer term recovery and development, the UK is establishing the 10 million service delivery fund which we hope will be able to move quickly to support the basic provision of education, health, and water and sanitation. This will act as a bridge to the Multi-Donor Trust Fund while it develops projects for funding to meet longer term development needs.

Sudan

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps the Government are taking to ensure that the aid arising from the pledges of Oslo donors is distributed to all parts of Sudan.

Hilary Benn: We are using two multilateral instruments to ensure that our aid assistance achieves national coverage. Firstly, we have allocated 40 million to the Common Humanitarian Fund (CHF). This fund is managed by the UN humanitarian co-ordinator, allowing him to fund humanitarian priorities across the whole of Sudan (in 2006 almost 42 per cent. of the CHF was allocated to the South). Secondly, we pledged at the 2005 Oslo donors' conference, a contribution of 47 million to the two World Bank managed Multi-Donor Trust Funds (MDTF) (23.5 million each). MDTF-National covers the war-affected areas of the North and the three transition zones of Abyei, Upper Nile, and Nuba Mountains; and the MDTF-South is for South Sudan. We have also established a 17.2 million Basic Services Fund which we are using to support non-governmental organisations to provide essential services in education, health and water/sanitation in the most deprived areas of South Sudan before the MDTF-South comes on stream.
	Finally, we are turning our attention to the East of Sudan (which has some of the poorest human development indicators in the country) and we have started a 2 million Chronic Poverty Fund, concentrating on Red sea state.

DEFENCE

Afghanistan

Ben Wallace: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence 
	(1)  what British Army units will form the (a) in theatre reserve and (b) out of theatre reserve for the 16 Air Assault Brigade deployment to Afghanistan in the summer of 2007;
	(2)  when he will answer question 51573 tabled on 9 February by the hon. Member for Lancaster and Wyre for named day answer on 13 February.

John Reid: 16 Air Assault Brigade will deploy in the summer of 2006 as part of the United Kingdom contribution to the NATO-led international security assistance force (ISAF). Provision of reserves for ISAF is the responsibility of NATO. Under current arrangements, ISAF can be reinforced 'over the horizon' by elements of the NATO strategic reserve force (SRF), and although the NATO response force (NRF), which is under UK leadership until July, does not act as a reserve as one of its routine missions, it too could be called upon in extremis to provide support. Theatre level reserves should be provided by allies through the NATO force generation process.

Aircraft Carriers

Ann Winterton: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether, following his meeting with the French Defence Minister, consideration is being given to the possible purchase of the Rafale Aircraft as an option to equip the proposed new aircraft carriers; and if he will make a statement.

Adam Ingram: pursuant to the reply, 6 March 2006, Official Report, c. 1183W
	I referred the hon. Member to an answer I gave on 2 March 2006, Official Report, column 1251W. This was incorrect; I should have referred the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 6 March 2006, Official Report, column 1192W, to the right hon. Member for Fylde (Mr. Jack).

Counter-insurgency

Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the training programme is for (a) officers and (b) other ranks for low-intensity warfare prior to deployment on counter-insurgency operations.

Adam Ingram: Military personnel receive the full range of war fighting training as a foundation to which further theatre-specific training is added as required. Counter-insurgency pre-deployment training falls within the wider programme of training undertaken by military personnel embarking on peace support operations (PSO) and is shaped by the requirements of the specific mission. Typically all ranks deploying on PSO will receive pre-deployment training which includes: managing incidents; conducting framework patrolling; training local security forces; conducting anti-riot operations; searching; protecting security bases; protecting convoys; application of rules of engagements; driving theatre specific vehicles; avoiding mines; understanding the local culture; and working with interpreters.

Counter-insurgency

Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the mechanism is for reconciling British counter-insurgency techniques with those of (a) the United States and (b) other coalition partners in (i) Iraq and (ii) Afghanistan.

Adam Ingram: International forces operating in Iraq and Afghanistan face a range of threats and differing operational environments, and adopt tactics and procedures to suit. The UK works closely with coalition partners in Iraq, and with coalition partners and NATO allies in Afghanistan, to ensure a well co-ordinated and mutually reinforcing approach to operations across each theatre, including counter-insurgency.

Courts Martial

Liam Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the average waiting time was for a case to go to court martial in the (a) Army, (b) Royal Navy and (c) Royal Air Force in 2005.

Don Touhig: The following figures detail the average time for all cases between personnel being charged and appearing at courts martial for each of the three Services in 2005.
	Royal Navy 123 Days
	Army307 Days
	RAF56 Days.
	The averages shown are heavily affected by individual cases (where for example there may be unusual delays in obtaining evidence) and they obscure wide variations between differing offences.

Defence College of Information Systems

Tobias Ellwood: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the Defence College of Information Systems will remain in Blandford under the Defence Training Review.

Don Touhig: The Defence Training Review Programme is at an advanced stage. Bidders' proposals for both Packages of training have been received and are currently being evaluated. At this competitive phase of the project no comment is possible on any likely use of sites. I can, however, provide assurance that there is an extensive and robust evaluation methodology in place to ensure that Bidders' proposals meet Defence requirements and are evaluated on an equitable basis.
	I anticipate the announcement of Preferred Bidders later this year.

Defence Vetting Agency

Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many people are employed by the Defence Vetting Agency; and how many were employed in each of the last five years.

Adam Ingram: The following table gives the number of civilians employed by the Defence Vetting Agency in the last five years:
	
		Defence Vetting Agency
		
			 As at April:  
		
		
			 2001 350 
			 2002 280 
			 2003 300 
			 2004 340 
			 2005 320 
			 January 2006 320 
		
	
	Note:
	1. Figures include values for part time staff proportionate to those of full time staff.
	2. All figures are rounded to the nearest 10.
	FTE Source:
	DASA(Civilian)
	Information giving numbers of civilian staff employed within Defence Agencies is available through the Defence Analytical Services Agency website www.dasa.mod.uk

Gibraltar

Andrew Rosindell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many British (a) military ships, (b) aircraft carriers and (c) RAF aircraft have visited Gibraltar in each of the last seven years.

Adam Ingram: The following numbers of British military ships, aircraft carriers and RAF aircraft have visited Gibraltar in the last seven years:
	1999116 RAF aircraft (no records available for British military ships)
	2000128 RAF Aircraft, 57 British military ships including one aircraft carrier
	200172 RAF aircraft, 39 British military ships
	200293 RAF aircraft, 49 British military ships including one aircraft carrier
	200387 RAF aircraft, 58 British military ships
	2004103 RAF aircraft, 35 British military ships including one aircraft carrier
	2005120 RAF aircraft, 40 ships including two aircraft carriers

Gibraltar Regiment

Lindsay Hoyle: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the role of Gibraltar Regiment troops in (a) Iraq and (b) Afghanistan.

Adam Ingram: Royal Gibraltar Regiment troops in Iraq have undertaken a variety of roles, including as advisers, administrators, media operators, medics, drivers, chefs, as part of security patrols and as a garrison regimental sergeant major.
	One officer from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment was deployed in Afghanistan as part of the provincial reconstruction team in Mazar-e-Sharif.

Infantry Regiments

Stewart Hosie: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the results were of the brand recognition survey of Scottish infantry regiments; and what the recognition rates were within (a) the city of Dundee and (b) the counties of (i) Angus, (ii) Fife and (iii) Perthshire.

John Reid: holding answer 3 March 2006
	The research did not include analysis for the specific areas that you refer to.

Iraq/Afghanistan

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether working relations between British forces and local officials in Basra have been restored.

Adam Ingram: British officials continue to discuss re-engagement with Basra's leaders in an attempt to restore normal working relations as soon as possible. In the meantime, Multi National Forces continue to engage at working level with the Iraqi Police and Army in Basrah Province wherever possible, in order to continue their valuable work on Security Sector Reform.

Iraq/Afghanistan

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the legal status is of the individuals arrested by British and Danish forces in Basra on 24 January.

Adam Ingram: The individuals apprehended by British and Danish forces in Basra on 24 January 2006 were interned because they were judged to be an imperative threat to security under the terms of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1637.

Iraq/Afghanistan

Adam Price: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether armed services personnel in Iraq have evidence of the use of Beretta 92S semi-automatic pistols by members of the Iraqi insurgency.

Adam Ingram: holding answer 9 March 2006
	Armed services personnel in Iraq have no evidence of Iraqi insurgents using the Beretta 92S semi-automatic pistol.

Iraq/Afghanistan

John MacDougall: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many UK service personnel have been (a) injured and (b) killed in Iraq.

John Reid: holding answer 10 March 2006
	As at 8 March 2006, a total of 103 British Forces personnel have died while serving on Operation TELIC since the start of the campaign in March 2003. Of these, 79 are classed as killed in actionincluding as a result of hostile actionand 24 are known to have died either as a result of illness, non-combat injuries or accidents, or have not yet been officially assigned a cause of death, pending the outcome of an investigation.
	Centrally available records show that some 230 UK personnel have been treated at UK medical facilities in theatre for wounds received as a result of hostile action between March 2003 and January 2006 1 .
	1 Before October 2004, we only have centrally held records for the Shaibah UK Field Hospital. The figure does not include, for example, UK casualties of hostile action who were treated either by other UK Field Hospitals (early stages of operation onlyfor which unit records are not held centrally) or by coalition partners, or those with more minor injuries who did not receive Field Hospital treatment. From October 2004, the figure relates to all those wounded who were treated in any of the UK medical facilities in the UK-led Multi-National Division South East MND(SE) area. This figure excludes any personnel who subsequently died.
	Our Notification of Casualty reporting records also allow us to give a figure for those categorised in theatre as Very Seriously Ill/Injured/Wounded (VSI), meaning that their life was imminently endangered. Some 40 personnel were categorised as VSI as a result of injury or wounds, however caused, in Iraq between March 2003 and January 2006 2 .
	2 The VSI figure excludes any personnel who subsequently died in theatre.
	Separate records show that between February 2003 and January 2006 up to 4,000 military and civilian personnel (including a few Iraqis) have been medically evacuated from theatre. The great majority of cases were due to illness or accidental injury and not as a result of hostile action.
	The Ministry of Defence intends to publish casualty figures for Iraq on the MOD website in the next few weeks, identifying the number of personnel categorised as Seriously Injured and Very Seriously Injured. The figures will be updated regularly.

Iraq/Afghanistan

Liam Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether delays have occurred in the air transportation of troops from (a) Iraq and (b) Afghanistan as a result of the need to cannibalise spare parts in the last 12 months.

Adam Ingram: None.

Iraq/Afghanistan

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what his plans are for combat search and rescue cover for downed RAF aircrews in (a) Iraq and (b) Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement.

Adam Ingram: For reasons of operational security, and to protect our troops in such a circumstance, I cannot reveal the detail of such rescue plans.

Leaf Class Tankers

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the (a) chartering costs, (b) maintenance budgets, (c) maintenance costs, (d) refitting costs, (e) operating budgets and (f) operating costs were of each of the Leaf Class of tankers in each year since their introduction.

Adam Ingram: Neither operating nor support budgets are managed on the basis of individual vessels or types of vessels and as such, there are no distinct, identifiable budgets available for the four Leaf Class Support Tankers.
	Actual refit and maintenance costs have been provided for financial years 199899 onwards, based on prices at the time. Costs prior to 1998 are no longer held.
	There is no management requirement for operating costs, including those associated with chartering, to be held by vessel type and these cannot therefore be provided. However, indicative costs, based on the cost of ownership of the Leaf Class, have been provided for each of the last three financial years. No indicative costs are held for earlier years.
	
		 million
		
			  199899 19992000 200001 200102 200203 200304 200405 
		
		
			 Bayleaf
			 Actual refit costs  3.787  
			 Actual maintenance costs 0.018 0.254 0.145 0.162 0.236 0.249 0.259 
			 Indicative operating costs 8.186 7.194 7.400 
			 
			 Brambleleaf
			 Actual refit costs  4.737 7.240 
			 Actual maintenance costs 0.002 0.099 0.170 0.124 0.151 0.621 0.386 
			 Indicative operating costs 7.283 5.023 7.089 
			 
			 Oakleaf
			 Actual refit costs   4.368   4.149  
			 Actual maintenance costs 0.034 0.075 0.162 0.122 0.119 0.251 0.317 
			 Indicative operating costs 3.554 2.675 4.291 
			 
			 Orangeleaf
			 Actual refit costs 5.484  5.490 
			 Actual maintenance costs 0.008 0.175 0.138 0.082 0.125 0.231 0.173 
			 Indicative operating costs 6.475 5.438 5.100

Missile Defence

Mark Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the answer of 15 February 2006, Official Report, column 2096W, to the hon. Member for Hemel Hempstead, on missile defence, what consultation process will be followed in reaching a decision on the future of the UK's missile defences.

John Reid: holding answer 10 March 2006
	No decisions have yet been taken on the acquisition of territorial missile defence for the UK and it is too early to say what consultation mechanisms might be appropriate to underpin any future decision making by the Government in this area.

RAF Lyneham

James Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what consideration he has given to the re-use of RAF Lyneham after 2012.

Adam Ingram: holding answer 10 March 2006
	RAF Lyneham is being considered under Project Belvedere, a Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) study, as a potential helicopter super base.
	Should JHC not have a use for the site, in accordance with normal procedures, it will be considered for other defence uses.

Royal Army Medical Corps

Liam Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the (a) actual strength and (b) establishment of each regiment of the Royal Army Medical Corps.

Don Touhig: The following table shows the strength and liability of the Royal Army Medical Corps as at 1 January 2006. Information at Regiment level is not available centrally.
	
		Trained strengths against liability for the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) as at 1 January 2006
		
			  Strength Liability 
		
		
			 Total 2,810 3,270 
			 Officers 950 940 
			 Soldiers 1,860 2,330 
		
	
	Notes:
	1. The liability figures consist of the UK Trained Army Personnel (where posts can be filled by Full-Time Reserve Service (FTRS) personnel) and the Manning and Training Margin (MTM). The MTM provides liability cover to prevent gaps being left in the unit when personnel become unavailable for certain manning and training reasons.
	2. The data have been rounded to the nearest 10, numbers ending in 5 have been rounded to the nearest multiple of 20 to prevent systematic bias.
	3. Totals have been rounded separately and therefore may not be equal to the sum of their parts.

STOROB Process

Liam Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many times (a) destroyers, (b) frigates, (c) minehunters and (d) submarines have undergone the STOROB process in each of the last five years.

Adam Ingram: The number of times that items or components of ships' fitted equipment have been transferred between vessels in front-line service time is as follows.
	
		
			  Destroyers Frigates Submarines Mine countermeasure vessels 
		
		
			 2001 30 77 (27) 14 
			 2002 37 56 (27) 30 
			 2003 5 21 (28)54 10 
			 2004 56 57 169 36 
			 2005 43 45 221 18 
		
	
	(27) Not available.
	(28) Six months only.
	We do not have records of the number of such transfers between submarines before mid-2003.

Strategic Development (NATO)

Liam Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will place in the Library a copy of the Comprehensive Political Guidance on the future strategic development of NATO agreed last December.

John Reid: It is not the Government's practice to publish NATO's internal strategic guidance.

Terrorism

Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent co-operation there has been on anti-terrorism measures between the armed forces of Russia and the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

John Reid: In the last two years the armed forces of the United Kingdom and Russia have co-operated in a number of areas in the field of counter-terrorism. Four Russian officers have undertaken ordnance disposal courses, preceded by English language training. Discussions are in train on formal arrangements for exchanging technical information on explosive ordnance disposal. The Ministry of Defence, the International Institute of Strategic Studies and the Northern Ireland Office have jointly sponsored a series of visits to the UK by senior Russian military officers in which the proper conduct of counter-terrorist operations has been a major theme. From 14 to 16 February a Russian cruiser took part, with HMS Nottingham, in a NATO naval exercise in the Mediterranean, in preparation for forthcoming Russian participation in NATO's maritime counter-terrorist Operation Active Endeavour.

Veterans Day

Mark Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which groups and organisations he consulted on the designation of a Veterans day on 27 June (a) prior to the decision being announced and (b) after the decision was announced.

Don Touhig: Plans to institute a national Veterans day were developed in close consultation with a number of the potential stakeholders, including in particular the Confederation of British Service and Ex-Service Organisation (COBSEO) which is the umbrella organisation representing around 200 service and ex-service organisations. We are continuing to work closely with COBSEO and others as we develop our more detailed plans for the day.

Veterans Day

Mark Harper: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans the Government has to commemorate the contribution of the Home Guard on national Veterans Day on 27 June.

Don Touhig: We are currently developing our plans for Veterans Day. I will make an announcement shortly, when this work is complete.

Winter Sports Teams

Michael Moore: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the cost was of maintaining winter sport teams for each of the services in the last three years.

Don Touhig: The costs of maintaining winter sports teams in each of the three services for the season 200506 are: Royal Navy, 28,833 from public funds and 67,480 from non-public funds; Army, 17,161 public funds and 37,900 non-public funds; and the Royal Air Force, 22,966 from public funds and 32,410 non-public funds. Figures are not readily available for the previous two years and could be compiled only at disproportionate cost. Eight service sports men and women were selected for the British team at the recent Winter Olympics, which represents 20 per cent. of the team.

Youth Justice Board

Liam Fox: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he (a) has held and (b) plans to hold with the Youth Justice Board about providing support to cadet force organisations.

Don Touhig: The Ministry of Defence and Youth Justice Board (YJB) have held two formal meetings at official level. The first was on 18 May 2004 and the second on 21 February 2006. A further meeting before Easter is planned, although a specific date is yet to be agreed. In addition, the MOD is in regular touch with the YJB at desk level concerning our joint support of youth activities.

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER

Building Regulations (Part L)

Mark Lancaster: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will delay the implementation of part L of the Building Regulations for six months to allow business further time to acquaint itself with the accompanying documentation and software.

Yvette Cooper: In my press release of 13 September 2005 I announced that we were introducing the changes to part L of the Building Regulations two years early in April 2006. This includes a deferral of three months from the implementation date set out in the Energy White Paper, to give the building industry sufficient time to prepare. Draft versions of the technical guidance were also made available in September 2005 and final software from October 2005. I intend to lay the statutory instrument and publish final approved documents in sufficient time for the April 2006 amendment.

Departmental Pay

Greg Hands: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the level is of the London Weighting element of pay given to employees of his Department; and if he will make a statement.

Jim Fitzpatrick: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to my hon. Friend the Member for Vauxhall (Kate Hoey) on 16 February 2006, Official Report, column 2216W.

Departmental Staff

Anne Main: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what new measures are being put in place to deal with bullying in his Department; and how these measures will differ from current practice.

Jim Fitzpatrick: The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is currently reviewing its policy and guidance to staff on bullying. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister will set out full details of any changes to its current policy and guidance in its response to the ODPM: Housing, Planning, Local Government and the Regions Committee First Report of Session 200506.

Green Parks

Peter Bone: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make a statement on planned funding of green parks in (a) Northamptonshire and (b) England.

Phil Woolas: Public parks and green space are primarily funded by local authorities through their revenue budgets. Decisions on spending are therefore a matter for them to determine in line with local priorities.
	The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has made more targeted money available for parks over the past five years, through the Safer and Stronger Communities Fund. The ODPM has also committed 5.45 million to green space projects in Northamptonshire, through its Growth Areas Fund programme.
	The quality of urban parks has improved since 2000, as recognised by the recent National Audit Office (NAO) report, 'Enhancing Urban Green Spaces'. The ODPM remains committed to supporting local authorities to deliver quality parks and green spaces through our Cleaner, Safer, Greener Communities programme.

Housing

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister pursuant to the answer of 7 November 2005, Official Report, column 188W, to the hon. Member for Brent East, on housing, how many units (a) built and (b) procured under (i) the Starter Home Initiative, (ii) the Key Worker Living Programme and (iii) other key workers housing schemes have been sold to non-key workers under the cascade mechanism in (A) the south-east, (B) London and (C) the East of England in each year for which figures are available.

Yvette Cooper: The cascade mechanism developed for the Key Worker Living programme did not come into operation until 2005. No dwellings developed through the Starter Home Initiative or Challenge Fund are subject to the cascade mechanism.
	Thirty-two dwellings in the south-east out of the 2190 dwellings completed through the Key Worker Living programme had their eligibility criteria widened to include non-key workers through the cascade mechanism in 200506.

Housing

Mark Harper: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will list the registered social landlords who specialise in housing ex-forces personnel.

Yvette Cooper: The Housing Corporation does not record data on registered social landlord (RSL) housing provision in such a way as would allow us to give a complete list of those RSLs specialising in housing ex-service personnel except at disproportionate cost. All RSLs may house former members of the armed services provided the RSLs eligibility criteria are met. There are a number of associations which were established specifically to house ex-forces personnel, although their objects may have diversified since their inception. These include: Haig Homes; Housing 21 (formerly Royal British Legion Housing Association); Enham; Royal Air Forces Association Housing Ltd., and the Ex-Service Fellowship Centres.

Housing

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister when he will announce the Housing Corporation's National Affordable Housing programme for 2006 to 2008.

Yvette Cooper: A decision on the Housing Corporation's Affordable Housing programme for 2006 to 2008 is expected to be announced later this month and announcements on individual allocations will be made subsequent to that.

Housing

Sarah Teather: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what percentage of housing stock is (a) listed and (b) in a conservation area.

Yvette Cooper: The information requested is not collected centrally and exact figures are unavailable. However, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport published Protecting our historic environment: making the system work better in October 2003. This estimated that approximately 1 per cent. of dwellings are listed. This estimate was based on a number of sources, including the English Heritage State of the Historic Environment Report 2002.

Housing

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how many social housing units were built with Transitional Local Authority Social Housing Grant funding in 200405.

Yvette Cooper: Transitional Local Authority Social Housing Grant (TLASHG) provided 3,695 homes for rent and low-cost home ownership in 200405. Of these, 3,187 were for social rent.

Housing

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the final figures were for expenditure on transitional local authority social housing grant in each Government office region in 200405.

Yvette Cooper: The following table shows spend in each Government Office region in 200405 for Transitional Local Authority Social Housing Grant (TLASHG). The table is divided into spend provided via the Housing Corporation to Registered Social Landlords for schemes in debt free authorities and that provided by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to with debt local authorities who received interest only payments in order to support the repayment of loans.
	
		Transitional LASHG expenditure 200405 --  million
		
			 Region Debt free LAs With debt LAs 
		
		
			 London 5.28 4.63 
			 South East 14.86 2.15 
			 South West 6.4 1.8 
			 East of England 8.25 0.97 
			 East Midlands 1.04 0.25 
			 West Midlands 1.19 0.16 
			 Yorks and Humberside 0.11 0.25 
			 North East 0.13 0 
			 North West 0.59 0.32 
			 Total 37.85 10.53 
		
	
	Figures for with debt authorities are subject to validation and do not include retrospective claims of around 90,000.

Local Elections

Fraser Kemp: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister pursuant to the answer of 13 February 2006, Official Report, column 1625W, to the hon. Member for Meriden, on local elections, which local authorities (a) are in the process of changing and (b) have formally requested a change to a whole council election cycle since that answer.

Phil Woolas: Since the last answer the Order implementing whole council elections in Broadland district council has been made and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister expects a formal request from Eastbourne in the near future.

Microgeneration

Vera Baird: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what assessment he has made of the merits of using council tax incentives to encourage the installation of microgeneration in private and rented accommodation.

Phil Woolas: None.

Neighbourhood Wardens

Vera Baird: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps he plans to take to strengthen local authority neighbourhood warden schemes.

Phil Woolas: Funding is available to local authorities through both the neighbourhood renewal fund and the neighbourhood element of the safer stronger communities fund to develop warden schemes if they choose to do so. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister also continues to strengthen and sustain warden schemes through the advice and support available through the regional warden resource centres.

Planning (Schools)

Eric Pickles: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will place in the Library copies of Planning Inspectorate rulings relating to planning applications for expanding schools over the last five years.

Yvette Cooper: The information requested is not held centrally, and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Single Status Scheme

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what estimate he has made of the cost of the Single Status Scheme for council employees to (a) Tamworth borough council, (b) Staffordshire county council and (c) all councils in England; and what financial support the Government are providing to local authorities for implementing the scheme.

Phil Woolas: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to the hon. Member for Shipley on 6 March 2006, Official Report, column 1169W.

Sustainable Buildings

Sarah Teather: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister whether the Government plans to extend the Code for Sustainable Buildings to include requirements in respect of (a) build quality and (b) durability of construction methods and materials.

Yvette Cooper: The consultation on the proposed code closed on 6 March 2006, and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister announced on 9 March 2006 that we will strengthen the Code for Sustainable Homes in order to increase environmental sustainability and give home owners better information about the running costs of their homes.
	Further analysis of the consultation responses is not yet complete, so it is too early to say exactly which issues concerning build quality and durability will be included within any revised code.
	But I can confirm that, in the light of the issues raised by this consultation, the ODPM will be introducing a series of revisions to the code as well as undertaking further research into future improvements.

Sustainable Buildings

Sarah Teather: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will incorporate flood resilience into the Code for Sustainable Buildings.

Yvette Cooper: Consultation on the code has just completed. We are currently considering the responses. Final decisions on the scope have yet to be made.

Thames Gateway

Don Foster: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps (a) his Department and (b) its non-departmental public bodies and executive agencies are taking to ensure an adequate provision of (i) cultural and (ii) sporting facilities in the Thames Gateway development; and if he will make a statement.

Yvette Cooper: The Government's strategy for the Thames Gateway, Creating Sustainable Communities: Delivering the Thames Gateway (March 2005) recognises the importance that culture plays in bringing people together socially, so that they form mixed and integrated communities. The Government believe that communities with culture at their core are often more vibrant and ultimately more attractive places to live.
	The Thames Gateway Programme Fund has already been used for a number of cultural projects across the Gateway including:
	1.45 million for the refurbishment of the Thameside library and theatre complex in Grays;
	1.75 million for the creation of the award winning Old Laban dance centre in Lewisham;
	100,000 for the refurbishment of The Broadway arts venue and training facility in Barking;
	The acquisition of a former factory sports club, in Gravesend, and its transformation into a sport, social and cultural asset for the community.
	Over 20 million of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister's funding is going into the regeneration of Dartford town centre. This is helping to provide real impetus to the wider regeneration across the town. Although not being funded by ODPM, this complements the construction of a new stadium, not only as a multi sports community facility but to support the return of Dartford Football Club to the town centre and the adjacent Leigh technical college is to be rebuilt as an academy school specialising in sport, enterprise and business. These developments are all on the new Fastrack route providing for enhanced accessibility.
	Heritage sites in Chatham, Fort Amherst and in Gravesend, Old Town Hall, have also been in receipt of ODPM funding towards preservation and development.
	Sport England provide the strategic lead for sport in England and are responsible for delivering the Government's sporting objectives. As part of this objective, they help local authorities plan for the provision of sporting facilities including playing pitches, golf courses and other sports requiring green areas.
	One major project that Sport England are doing in partnership with the Thames Gateway Strategy and delivery divisions of ODPM is the Thames Gateway North Kent Cultural Framework and Toolkit. The project, funded to the tune of 60,000 by the Thames Gateway delivery unit, is to develop a framework for culture in the area to set a consistent context for cultural planning in Thames Gateway North Kent.
	The toolkit will bring together in one place the analytical tools used by the various cultural agencies, such as Sport England's planning contributions toolkit, to help local authorities in particular to deliver cultural facilities through the planning system.
	It is further hoped that the local regeneration partnerships will incorporate this thinking into their planning processes, with ODPM approval, so that a consistent approach to cultural provision is embedded in the planning process.
	Finally, the 2012 games will leave a legacy of world class sporting facilities for both elite and community use. The facilities will comprise a 25,000 seat stadium, an aquatic centre with two 50m pools and diving facilities, a hockey centre, a velodrome and BMX area, and a multisports arena.

HOME DEPARTMENT

Active Communities Directorate

Emily Thornberry: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many organisations representing the women's voluntary and community sector have been short listed for the Active Communities Directorate Strategic Funding Programme.

Paul Goggins: The Women's Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS) continues to receive funding under the Active Communities Directorate Strategic Funding Programme as part of a pre-existing agreement on unrestricted grant-aid to WRVS.A number of umbrella Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisations were short-listed where their work includes representing women's interests relating to the VCS. No organisations with sole responsibility for representing women's interests relating to the VCS were able to satisfy the selection criteria.

Animal Cruelty

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) allegations, (b) investigations and (c) prosecutions have occurred under (i) the Animals (Cruel Poisons) Act 1962, (ii) the Abandonment of Animals Act 1960 and (iii) the Docking and Nicking of Horses Act in the last 10 years.

Fiona Mactaggart: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Southend, West (Mr. Amess) on 1 March 2006, Official Report, column 800W.

Anti-Semitic Incidents

John Leech: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to tackle anti-Semitic incidents in England and Wales.

Paul Goggins: The Government deplores all forms of racism and is committed to tackling anti-Semitism wherever it exists.
	In recent years the Government have strengthened both the legal framework against race discrimination and the criminal penalties for offences such as incitement to racial hatred and for racially or religiously aggravated assault and criminal damage.
	We have robust police and CPS policies. Police forces are alert to crimes committed against members of all faith communities and take appropriate steps to safeguard people and property.
	In May 2005, The Home Office and the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) published a Hate Crime Manual: Hate Crime: Delivering a Quality Service. The manual provides tactical and practical guidance to police forces and authorities on the handling and investigation of hate crimes including racially and religiously motivated offences.
	We are teaching young people through the National Curriculum about citizenship and there is a statutory requirement on schools to teach about the Holocaust. Government also supports the annual commemoration of Holocaust Memorial Day to reinforce the message that racism and prejudice can have catastrophic consequences.

Asylum/Immigration

Evan Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many (a) asylum seekers and (b) failed asylum seekers left the UK under the voluntary assisted return and re-integration programme administered on behalf of his Department by the International Organisation for Migration in each year since 1999, broken down by nationality.

Tony McNulty: The statistics for returns under VARRP (Voluntary Assisted Return and Reintegration Programmes) are not split into current and failed asylum seekers. In order to be eligible for return under VARRP the applicant must have either a current asylum application waiting consideration or they must be a failed asylum seeker. The total numbers of people who have left the UK since 1999, split by nationality are in the table.
	The figure for 2006 consists only of the number of returns for January and February.
	
		
			 Country 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Overall 
		
		
			 Albania 13 266 623 547 724 604 509 36 3,322 
			 Iraq  2 3  91 433 768 336 1,633 
			 Iran 2 31 179 112 176 175 224 39 938 
			 Afghanistan30 102 232 424 93 881 
			 Kosovo  157 134 109 116 145 168 11 840 
			 Sri Lanka  6 14 52 197 211 252 38 770 
			 Czech Republic   15 93 336 59   503 
			 Pakistan  1 18 15 41 57 82 18 232 
			 Zimbabwe  1 1 6 36 61 103 14 222 
			 Poland  2 6 11 108 45   172 
			 Colombia 1  3 11 21 63 52 3 154 
			 Algeria 2 1 6 4 36 36 39 6 130 
			 Ecuador   12 10 34 42 14 8 120 
			 Russia  8 16 11 24 21 38 2 120 
			 Romania 4 16 25 40 13 5 4  107 
			 Angola 13 25 41 21 100 
			 Latvia 3 3 5 16 44 27   98 
			 Turkey  5 5 10 18 28 24 7 97 
			 South Africa  1  4 28 17 33 1 84 
			 Others 23 48 142 115 303 427 461 137 1,656 
			 Total 48 548 1,207 1,196 2,461 2,713 3,236 770 12,179

Asylum/Immigration

Jennifer Willott: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many asylum-seeking children in the UK in (a) 1995, (b) 2000, (c) 2004 and (d) 2005 had been residing in the UK for (i) less than one year, (ii) one to two years, (iii) two to three years and (iv) more than three years; and if he will make a statement.

Tony McNulty: The requested information is not available.
	Information on the total number of asylum applications awaiting an initial decision is published quarterly and annually. Copies are available from the Library and on the Home Office Research Development and Statistics Directorate website at http://homeoffice. gov.uk/rds/immigration1.html.

Asylum/Immigration

Keith Vaz: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many deportation cases have not been proceeded with in the last five years where immigrants have alleged that their past crimes will affect the observance of their human rights on return to their country of origin.

Tony McNulty: The Immigration and Nationality Directorate does not routinely collect this information and it could be gathered only at disproportionate cost.

Biometric Passports

Nigel Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department 
	(1)  when he expects the first biometric passport to be issued;
	(2)  whether he expects to meet the target for full issuing of biometric passports by October 2006.

Andy Burnham: I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 2 March 2006, Official Report, column 952W.

British National Party

Patrick Mercer: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many arrests have been made of members of the British National Party in the last 12 months for inciting (a) violence and (b) murder.

Paul Goggins: This information is not collected centrally.

Compensation Awards

John Penrose: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will establish a system whereby compensation awarded by a court could be paid from a central fund and then recouped by the court from the offender.

Harriet Harman: I have been asked to reply.
	We currently have no plans to introduce a central victims compensation fund for the payment of court-awarded compensation orders.
	The HMCS enforcement programme has made progress in improving the national payment rate, and is now focusing effort on the collection of outstanding compensation orders. We are also considering ways to improve communication with victims throughout the payment period.

Drug Classification

Paul Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what evidence he has collated on the extent to which classifying drugs in class A, rather than B or C, (a) reduces individual harm, (b) reduces harm to public health, (c) prevents misuse, (d) deals with social problems connected with their misuse and (e) reduces (i) availability and (ii) criminality.

Paul Goggins: Controlled drugs are classified under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 according to their comparative harmfulness. The overall aim of the drug strategy is to reduce the harms caused by illegal drugs. It focuses on the most dangerous drugs (i.e. class A), the most damaged communities and those who cause most harm to themselves and others.
	The Drug Harm Index (DHI) (measuring the harm from illegal drugs using the Drug Harm Index. Home Office Online Report 24/05), which has been developed to monitor the public service agreement (PSA) target to reduce harm caused by illegal drugs agreed in the 2004 Spending Review, incorporates the harms that individuals and society suffer due to drug-related crime, the health impact of drug use and dealing on communities. A high level description of how harm reduction is measured is given in the supporting PSA Technical Note SR04PSA four, which is available in the Library. As a measure of the overall impact of the drug strategy the DHI shows a 9 per cent. reduction in the harms caused by drug misuse between 2002 and 2003 (i.e. the latest complete data available).
	By identifying the most dangerous drugs, the classification system provides a focus for efforts and resources to be targeted in the most effective way. However, it is the drugs strategy, and underpinning evidence, which drives the reduction of drug-related harms rather than the classification system itself.

Fixed Penalty Notices

Nigel Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many fixed penalty notices were not paid in Lancashire in (a) 2004 and (b) 2005.

Paul Goggins: The only data available at this time comes from the penalty notices for disorder database held by the RDS-OCJR. It shows that of the 5,077 penalty notices issued in Lancashire in 2004, 2,666 were reported as not being paid in full, and provisional data from January to October 2005 shows that of the 8,699 penalty notices issued in Lancashire in 2004, 4,592 were reported as not being paid in full.
	The latest available information collected by the RDS-OCJR on the number of fixed penalty notices for motoring offences is for 2002 and can be found within the Home Office publication, 'Offences relating to motor vehicles England and Wales 2003, Supplementary tables 2003', Tables 21 (a) to 21 (c) refers. Copy is available in the Library and can also be accessed on the Home Office Research Development and Statistics (RDS) website at: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/index.htm.
	2003 data will be available in the 2004 publication due at the end of March 2006. 2004 data will be available in the 2005 publication due early in 2007.
	Under the Road Traffic Act 1991, Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE) powers allow local authorities to take over responsibility for enforcing parking contraventions from the police. 2003 data on penalty charge notices (PCNs) from individual local authorities operating decriminalised parking enforcement can also be found in the above mentioned publication, tables 22(a) to 22(b) refers.

Identity Cards

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to his oral statement of 13 February 2006, Official Report, column 1171, on identity cards, what the evidential basis was for his statement that a number of countries, including the US, propose to have 13 sets of biometric data per person on a centrally held database.

Andy Burnham: I am clear from discussions with my opposite numbers internationally that a number of other countries, including the United States are likely to move to using 13 biometrics in due course, based on face fingerprints and iris biometrics. The use of multiple biometrics has been accepted in principle in the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Blueprint for machine readable travel documents which has been accepted by the 188 ICAO contracting states and includes the face as the primary mandatory biometric and iris or fingerprints as secondary and optional biometrics.
	The United States already has one of the leading biometric systems to identify visitors, the US VISIT system. When announced in April 2003, it was made clear that it would use biometrics which could include facial image, fingerprints and iris images. Although it currently requires all foreign visitors to the United States to enrol facial image and two index fingerprints on entry, the United States Secretary of Homeland Security said in July 2005 that, in the future, first-time visitors to the United States will be enrolled in the US VISIT system by submitting 10 fingerprints. 10 fingerprint biometrics will also be used in the US in the Registered Traveller Program which has piloted the use of fingerprint and iris biometrics along the lines of our own Iris Recognition Immigration System (IRIS) to allow for fast track immigration clearance of registered passengers.

International Organisation for Migration

Evan Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many people are registered with the International Organisation for Migration and awaiting voluntary return under the voluntary assisted return and reintegration programme, broken down by nationality.

Tony McNulty: The number of people, split by nationality, who have applied for, been approved and are waiting return under VARRP (Voluntary Assisted Return and Reintegration Programme) are listed in the following table. This information is correct as on 8 March.
	
		
			  Number 
		
		
			 Total 1,742 
			 Iraq 980 
			 Pakistan 88 
			 Afghanistan 82 
			 Iran 78 
			 Sri Lanka 68 
			 South Africa 39 
			 Albania 32 
			 Zimbabwe 32 
			 Algeria 29 
			 China 19 
			 Angola 18 
			 Russia 18 
			 Somalia 18 
			 Turkey 18 
			 India 17 
			 Nigeria 14 
			 DRC 13 
			 Uganda 13 
			 Mongolia 12 
			 Israel 11 
			 Other 143

International Organisation for Migration

Evan Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how long, on average, the International Organisation for Migration is taking to complete arrangements for voluntary return under the voluntary assisted return and reintegration programme in the case of applicants from (a) Iraq, (b) the Democratic Republic of Congo, (c) Eritrea, (d) Ethiopia, (e) Somalia, (f) Iran and (g) all nationalities.

Tony McNulty: There is not an average amount of time that it takes IOM to complete the arrangement for voluntary return to any country since the time of departure is dependant on when the applicant wishes to leave the UK.
	IOM send all applications for voluntary return to IND within 24 hours of IOM receiving them. IND then approves or rejects applications within five working days. From the date that IND approves an application, the applicants have three months in which to leave the UK, this applies to all nationalities except Iraqis who have six months in which to leave the UK.
	The returnee informs IOM of when they wish to return which may be within days or it may at the end of the three month period. This period of time enables the returnee to choose when they wish to travel to take account of their own personal preferences, circumstances and put their affairs in order.

Parliamentary Questions

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he will reply to questions (a) 50928, (b) 50948, (c) 50322 and (d) 50261 on identity cards.

Andy Burnham: I refer my hon. Friend to the answers given on the following dates:
	50928 and 50948 2 March 2006, Official Report, column 952W
	50322 27 February 2006, Official Report, column 88W
	50261 27 February 2006, Official Report, column 87W

People Trafficking

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take steps to combat the trafficking of young women from Eastern Europe for the purposes of the sex industry in Cambridgeshire; and if he will make a statement.

Paul Goggins: The Government have a comprehensive strategy to combat human trafficking which includes legislation, effective law enforcement, international cooperation, prevention measures and support for victims.
	The Home Office and Foreign and Commonwealth Office are both involved in capacity building projects and awareness raising campaigns on trafficking in source and transit countries in Eastern Europe to prevent women being trafficked into the UK for sexual exploitation. In addition, we are currently drawing up a joint action plan with Lithuania.
	Whilst I cannot comment on any operational activity that Cambridgeshire police may currently be engaged in, the police in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in February launched Operation Pentameter, a co-ordinated national campaign which is focussed on dealing with the criminal organisations that profit from human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

Police (Drug Testing Equipment)

Philip Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of drug testing equipment supplied by companies other than Cozart Bioscience Ltd.

Paul Goggins: A competition under the EU directives resulted in the award of a contract in December 2003 for the provision of oral fluid drug testing kits used in police custody suites. As part of the competition process, a paper evaluation made of technical specifications for systems submitted by bidders resulted in contract award to Cozart plc. No further assessments were undertaken.
	A competition under the EU directives resulting in the award of two framework agreements for the provision of oral fluid drug testing kits and associated confirmatory drug testing services to National Probation Service areas was concluded in July 2005. The two successful companies were Cozart plc and SureScreen Diagnostics Ltd.
	As part of the evaluation process leading to the award of these frameworks, individual test kit samples and equipment together with technical data on the kits were submitted, by all bidders, for assessment, to determine whether they met the technical requirements as set out in the competition specification. As part of the evaluation process there was no requirement for samples to be submitted for field tests.
	An assessment undertaken by the National Offender Management Service concluded that oral fluid testing (all variations on that theme) currently did not meet requirements for drug testing in prisons.

Prisons

Edward Garnier: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department which (a) prisons and (b) young offender institutions have governors who have been in post for more than two years; and how many of them will leave within the next 12 months.

Fiona Mactaggart: 51 of the 127 Governors in charge of public sector prisons and young offenders institutions in England and Wales have been in post for two or more years (as of the 1 March 2006). The establishments that they govern are shown in the following table. It is not possible to forecast which Governors will leave during the next 12 months, but the Governors from four establishments in the table will reach normal retirement age (60) during that period. Information relating to contracted prisons is not available and can be provided only at disproportionate cost.
	List showing governors in charge of public sector prisons and young offenders institutions in England and Wales who have been in post for two or more years (as of 1 March 2006).
	HMP Albany
	HMYOI Aylesbury
	HMP Birmingham
	HMP Blakenhurst
	HMP Blundeston
	HMYOI Brinsford
	HMP Brixton
	HMP Bullingdon
	HMP Camp Hill 1
	HMP Cardiff
	HMP Coldingley
	HMP Cookham Wood
	HMP Deerbolt
	HMP Dorchester
	HMP Dover
	HMP Drake Hall
	HMP Eastwood Park
	HMYOI Feltham
	HMP Ford
	HMP Foston Hall
	HMP Frankland
	HMP Full Sutton
	HMP Garth
	HMP Gloucester
	HMP Grendon
	HMP Guys Marsh
	HMP Kingston
	HMP Kirkham
	HMP Kirklevington
	HMP Lancaster Castle
	HMP Lewes
	HMP Leyhill
	HMP Lindholme
	HMP Maidstone
	HMP Manchester
	HMP New Hall
	HMP Northallerton
	HMP Portland 1
	HMP Risley
	HMP Send
	HMP Styal
	HMP Sudbury
	HMP Swansea
	HMP Swinfen Hall
	HMP Usk/Prescoed
	HMP Warren Hill 1
	HMP Wellingborough
	HMP Werrington
	HMP Wetherby
	HMP Whatton 1
	HMP Whitemoor
	1 Governor In Charge will reach normal retirement age in the next 12 months.

Prisons

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to increase funding for the work done at HM Prison Grendon.

Fiona Mactaggart: Bids for increased mental health in-reach funding to enhance the therapeutic capacity of Grendon prison have recently been submitted to the Vale of Aylesbury Primary Care Trust. Grendon is also currently responding to an invitation by the Dangerous and Severe Personality Disorder (DSPD) Home Office Team to bid for consideration as a DSPD step-down facility.

Private Schools (Charitable Status)

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will initiate a review of the charitable status of private schools.

Paul Goggins: Many, but not all, independent schools have charitable status. An organisation qualifies for charitable status only if it has a charitable purposesuch as the advancement of educationand is for the public benefit. The Charity Commission, the independent regulator, will be required, under the Charities Bill now before Parliament, to issue guidance on public benefit. After the Bill is enacted, the Commission will begin a programme to review the public benefit of different groups of charities, including fee-charging charities.

Prostitution

Si�n James: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress 'Project Reflex' has made in combating the trafficking of women to the UK to work as prostitutes.

Paul Goggins: Reflex has made progress in combating organised immigration crime by disrupting organised criminal gangs involved in trafficking for sexual exploitation as well as people smuggling and related activities. Between April 2004 and April 2005 Reflex resulted in 149 disruptions of organised immigration crime groups. Reflex conducted 343 operations during 04/05 which resulted in 1,456 arrests 102 of these were for trafficking for sexual exploitation offences.

Security Industry Authority

Phyllis Starkey: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what powers he has to take action against the Security Industry Authority for failing to meet the deadlines for licensing door supervisors.

Paul Goggins: The deadlines for door supervisors have all already been met. The provisions in the Private Security Industry Act 2001 which required all door supervisors who carry out licensable activities to be licensed were rolled out on a regional basis, with the last offence date being 11 April 2005. Ultimately, the responsibility for obtaining a licence to undertake licensable activities lies with the individual.

Sex Offences

Ben Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will re-examine the law on anonymity prior to conviction with respect to individuals who are the subject of allegations of sex offences.

Paul Goggins: The Government support the conduct of investigations into allegations of sex offences without publicity before charge and believes that the current system of guidance is operating satisfactorily. We have recently reviewed the impact of guidance issued by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) and the Press Complaints Commission (PCC) and found that neither ACPO nor the PCC have received any complaints about breaches of their guidance.

Sex Offences

Ben Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent representations he has received from members of the public wrongly accused of sex offences with regard to anonymity prior to conviction.

Paul Goggins: Our records show that during 2005 eight letters were received from members of the public about anonymity for sex offence suspects and two were received from Members of Parliament. We have no record of receiving any correspondence on this subject to date in 2006.

Sudan

Lynda Waltho: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many failed asylum seekers who stated that they were from the Darfur region of Sudan have been returned since 2000.

Tony McNulty: The latest published information on removal of asylum seekers covers the final quarter of 2005.
	The Home Office does not electronically record the region from which failed asylum seekers originate; this information would be available by examination of individual case files only at disproportionate cost. Therefore the number of failed asylum seekers that were from the Darfur region of Sudan, and where they have been returned to is not available.
	In 2005 there were 235 principal asylum seekers, nationals of Sudan, removed from the UK, of whom 40 were returned to Sudan. These figures include persons departing 'voluntarily' after enforcement action has been initiated against them, those leaving under Assisted Voluntary Return programmes run by the International Organisation for Migration, and those who it is established have left the UK without informing the immigration authorities. These figures are rounded to the nearest five and are provisional.
	Information on the number of asylum seekers removed from the UK, broken down by nationality, is produced regularly in the annual Asylum Bulletin. Destination data has only been available since 2004. Data pertaining to persons removed from the UK, broken down by nationality and destination for 2004 is also available from this publication.
	Published statistics on immigration and asylum are available on the Home Office's Research Development and Statistics website at: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/immigration1.html

War Criminals

Emily Thornberry: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department pursuant to the answer of 13 February 2006, Official Report, column 1748W, on war criminals, if he will place copies in the Library of the minutes of meetings of the European network of contact points in respect of persons responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes.

Tony McNulty: The conclusions of the meetings of the European Network are internal Council communications and have not been made public. It would not therefore be appropriate to place them in the Library although it is open to anyone to apply for access to the Council Secretariat.

World Cup

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department 
	(1)  when he last met the German Interior Minister to discuss measures designed to prevent hooliganism by English fans at this year's World Cup;
	(2)  how many meetings he has had with the German Interior Minister since the German election to discuss the potential for hooliganism at this year's World Cup by English fans;
	(3)  what discussions he has had with the German Chancellor on combating potential hooliganism by English fans at this year's World Cup.

Paul Goggins: There has been and continues to be extensive liaison and co-operation with the German Government, police and civil authorities, including at ministerial level.

World Cup

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has visited stadia to be used for this year's football World Cup in Germany to discuss security and combating hooliganism.

Paul Goggins: I have not personally visited any of the World Cup stadia but we have been assured by the host authority that all stadia will be able to host World Cup matches in a safe and secure environment.

World Cup

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he proposes to take to prevent known English football hooligans from travelling to Germany for this year's football World Cup.

Paul Goggins: Individuals known to pose a risk to public order in Germany can and will be prevented from leaving England and Wales during the tournament control period in accordance with football banning order and associated police powers introduced by the Football (Disorder) Act 2000.

World Cup

Greg Hands: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the steps which might be taken as a result of the experience of English football hooliganism during Euro 2000.

Paul Goggins: A comprehensive and holistic approach to football disorder was introduced in the wake of Euro 2000. The impact of this strategy is detailed in a Home Office report (Football (Disorder) Act 2000 Report to Parliament) laid before Parliament on 20 January 2006.

TREASURY

Al Qaeda and Taliban Order

Vincent Cable: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what total amount of assets has been frozen under the al-Qaeda and Taliban Order (2002); and what amounts have since been returned to individuals and entities.

Ivan Lewis: The total value of assets that have been subject to asset freezing action under the al-Qaeda and Taliban (United Nations Measures) Order (2002) is nearly 80 million. Most of the sum was frozen as associated with the Taliban, but subsequently unfrozen for the Government of Afghanistan. No other sums have been unfrozen in connection with de-listing. Some 500,000 is currently frozen.

Biofuels

Jeremy Browne: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the basis is of his Department's statutory definition for biofuels which qualify for the duty concession of 20p per litre.

John Healey: I refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Birmingham, Yardley (John Hemming) on 15 December 2005, Official Report, column 2265W.

Bowel Cancer

James Clappison: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the five-year survival rate is for bowel cancer in (a) England and (b) Wales.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your recent question concerning what the five year survival rate is for bowel cancer in (a) England and (b) Wales. I am replying in her absence. (57220)
	For England, the latest available survival rates for colon and rectal cancer are for adult patients diagnosed during 19982001 and followed up to the end of 2003. The figures were published on the National Statistics website on 9 May 2005, and are available at: http://www.statistics.gov.uk/statbase/Expodata/Spreadsheets/D8982.xls
	For Wales, the latest available survival rates for colon and rectal cancer are for adult patients diagnosed during 19951999 and followed up to the end of 2002. The figures were published in Cancer Incidence, Mortality and Survival in Wales on 15 June 2005 and are available at: http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sites3/documents/242/ACF68D.pdf
	Figures for the two countries are not directly comparable for a number of reasons, including differences in coverage and follow-up period.
	The latest available five-year survival rates for colon and rectal cancer are summarised in the table below.
	
		Five-year age-standardised(29) relative survival for adult patients(30) diagnosed with colon and rectal cancer in England during 19982001 and in Wales during 199599, by sex -- Percentage
		
			  Five-year relative survival(32) 
			 Cancer(31) England 19982001 Wales 199599 
		
		
			 Colon   
			 Men 49.4 49.1 
			 Women 50.2 45.2 
			 Rectum   
			 Men 50.0 46.6 
			 Women 53.6 50.5 
		
	
	(29) As cancer survival varies with age at diagnosis, the relative rates for all ages (1599) have been age-standardised to control for changes in the age profile of cancer patients over time, thus making them comparable with previously published figures.
	(30) Aged 15 to 99 years.
	(31) Defined by codes in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD10). In this table colon cancer is taken to be code C18 and rectal cancer C19-C21.
	(32) Figures for the two countries are not directly comparable for a number of reasons, including difference in coverage and follow-up period.
	Source:
	Office for National Statistics, Welsh Cancer Intelligence and Surveillance Unit.

Business Competitiveness (Coventry, South)

Jim Cunningham: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the principal factors affecting the competitiveness of business in Coventry, South.

John Healey: The pre-Budget-report provided an assessment of progress against HM Treasury's five drivers of. productivity, across the whole of the UK economy, and identified action needed by Government to provide the right environment for businesses competing in the global environment. The Government want a successful and dynamic business sector with more companies moving into high value manufacturing and services to meet the challenge of globalisation. The Government's strategy focuses on raising productivity and innovation across the whole UK economy, including Coventry, South.

Child Benefit

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many and what percentage of people are in receipt of child benefit in Crosby constituency.

Dawn Primarolo: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to her on 25 January 2006, Official Report, column 2214W.

Earnings

Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the average earnings of full-time employees in Denton and Reddish constituency were in April in each year since 1997.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question to ask what the average earnings of full-time employees in the Denton and Reddish constituency were in April each year since 1997. I am replying in her absence. (57826)
	Average earnings are estimated from the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), and are provided for full time employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey period was not affected by absence. This is the standard definition used for ASHE. The ASHE does not collect data on the self employed.
	The ASHE, carried out in April of each year, is the most comprehensive source of earnings information in the United Kingdom. It is a one per cent. sample of all employees who are members of pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) scheme.
	I attach tables showing Average Gross Weekly Earnings by parliamentary constituency for the years 1997 to 2005 for Full Time Employees on Adult Rates. These statistics are also available on the National Statistics website at:
	
		Gross weekly () pay for full time employee jobs(33) by place of work
		
			 Denton and Reddish Median Mean 
		
		
			 1997 297 328 
			 1998 275 344 
			 1999 307 376 
			 2000 315 382 
			 2001 326 422 
			 2002 361 433 
			 2003 362 472 
			 2004 375 453 
			 2004(34) 378 461 
			 2005 402 479 
		
	
	(33) Employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay period was not affected by absence.
	(34) Includes Supplementary survey data
	Note:
	The median replaces the mean as the headline statistic. The weighted mean is the sum of the weighted values divided by the sum of the weights. The median is the value below which 50 per cent. of employees fall. It is preferred over the mean for earnings data as it is influenced less by extreme values and because of the skewed distribution of earnings data.
	Source:
	Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, Office for National Statistics.
	
		Gross weekly () pay for full time employee jobs(35) by place of residence
		
			 Denton and Reddish Median Mean 
		
		
			 1997 (37) (37) 
			 1998 (37) (37) 
			 1999 (37) (37) 
			 2000 (37) (37) 
			 2001 (37) (37) 
			 2002 325 356 
			 2003 330 375 
			 2004 339 375 
			 2004(36) 338 376 
			 2005 359 430 
		
	
	(35) Employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay period was not affected by absence.
	(36) Includes Supplementary survey data
	(37) Data not available
	Note:
	The median replaces the mean as the headline statistic. The weighted mean is the sum of the weighted values divided by the sum of the weights. The median is the value below which 50 per cent. of employees fall. It is preferred over the mean for earnings data as it is influenced less by extreme values and because of the skewed distribution of earnings data.
	Source:
	Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, Office for National Statistics.

Earnings

David Drew: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the average earnings of full-time employees in Stroud constituency were in April of each year since 1997.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician, who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question to ask what the average earnings of full-time employees in the Stroud constituency were in April each year since 1997. I am replying in her absence. (57238)
	Average earnings are estimated from the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), and are provided for full-time employees on adult rate whose pay for the survey period was not affected by absence. This is the standard definition used for ASHE. The ASHE does not collect data on the self employed and people who do unpaid work.
	I attach tables showing Average Gross Weekly Earnings by parliamentary constituency for the years 1997 to 2005 for Full Time Employees on Adult Rates. These statistics are also available on the National Statistics website at: http://www.statistics.gov.uk/StatBase/Product.asp?vlnk=13101.
	The ASHE, carried out in April of each year, is the most comprehensive source of earnings information in the United Kingdom. It is a one per cent sample of all employees who are members of pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) schemes.
	
		Gross weekly pay for full-time employee jobs(38) by place of workStroud -- 
		
			  Median Mean 
		
		
			 1997 320 344 
			 1998 349 375 
			 1999 326 370 
			 2000 352 392 
			 2001 357 435 
			 2002 388 455 
			 2003 371 435 
			 2004 395 455 
			 2004(39) 406 449 
			 2005 413 469 
		
	
	(38) Employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay period was not affected by absence.
	(39) Includes supplementary survey data.
	Note:
	The median replaces the mean as the headline statistic. The weighted mean is the sum of the weighted values divided by the sum of the weights. The median is the value below which 50 per cent. of employees fall. It is preferred over the mean for earnings data as it is influenced less by extreme values and because of the skewed distribution of earnings data.
	Source:
	Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, Office for National Statistics.
	
		Gross weekly pay for full-time employee jobs(40) by place of residenceStroud -- 
		
			  Median Mean 
		
		
			 1997 (41) (41) 
			 1998 (41) (41) 
			 1999 (41) (41) 
			 2000 (41) (41) 
			 2001 (41) (41) 
			 2002 411 490 
			 2003 427 514 
			 2004 424 530 
			 2004(42) 426 535 
			 2005 454 554 
		
	
	(40) Employees on adult rates whose pay for the survey pay period was not affected by absence.
	(41) Data not available.
	(42) Includes supplementary survey data.
	Note:
	The median replaces the mean as the headline statistic. The weighted mean is the sum of the weighted values divided by the sum of the weights. The median is the value below which 50 per cent. of employees fall. It is preferred over the mean for earnings data as it is influenced less by extreme values and because of the skewed distribution of earnings data.
	Source:
	Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, Office for National Statistics.

Employment Statistics

Malcolm Moss: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the number of people employed in the (a) cultural industry and (b) sporting industry in the UK.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician, who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about employment in culture and sport in the United Kingdom. I am replying in her absence. (57246)
	It is estimated from Annual Business Survey that there were 443 thousand employee jobs in cultural and recreational activities and 227 thousand in sporting activities in Great Britain in 2004. This is the latest period for which information is available.
	As with any sample survey these estimates are subject to a margin of uncertainty.

EU Accession States

John Denham: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the number of citizens of EU accession states who are living in each district and unitary council area.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your Parliamentary Question about citizens of EU accession states. I am replying in her absence. (57751)
	Ten EU accession states (Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia) joined the EU in May 2004. The table attached shows estimates of the number of citizens of these countries who are resident in each unitary and local authority in Great Britain, where estimates are available. They are from the Annual Population Survey for the 12 months ending December 2004. Sample numbers are insufficient to provide estimates for other areas.
	These estimates, as with any from sample surveys, are subject to a margin of uncertainty. The data shown in the table are the most recent available, and only part of the period covered is after the May 2004 date of accession. It is planned that up-to-date data for the 12 months ending September 2005 will be available in April 2006.
	
		Number of citizens of EU accession states(43) resident in each local authority, 2004, Great Britain
		
			 Unitary and local authority(44) Numbers of people (000) 
		
		
			 Great Britain 138 
			 Aberdeen City 1 
			 Barking and Dagenham 2 
			 Barnet 4 
			 Bedford 1 
			 Boston 1 
			 Bournemouth UA * 
			 Bradford 1 
			 Brent 5 
			 Brighton and Hove UA * 
			 Broadland 1 
			 Broxbourne (45) 
			 Bury (45) 
			 Cambridge 1 
			 Camden 2 
			 Canterbury 1 
			 Chelmsford 1 
			 Coventry * 
			 Croydon 3 
			 Derby UA 1 
			 Dover 1 
			 Ealing 4 
			 East Dorset * 
			 East Hampshire * 
			 Eastbourne 1 
			 Elmbridge 1 
			 Enfield 6 
			 Fenland * 
			 Fife 1 
			 Gravesham * 
			 Greenwich 2 
			 Hackney 1 
			 Hammersmith and Fulham 1 
			 Haringey 3 
			 Harrow 2 
			 Hillingdon 3 
			 Hounslow 2 
			 Islington 2 
			 Kensington and Chelsea 2 
			 Kingston upon Hull, City of, UA 1 
			 Kingston upon Thames 1 
			 Kirklees 1 
			 Lambeth 1 
			 Leeds 3 
			 Leicester UA (45) 
			 Lewisham 4 
			 Luton UA * 
			 Manchester 1 
			 Merton 6 
			 Milton Keynes UA 1 
			 Neath Port Talbot (45) 
			 Newcastle upon Tyne 1 
			 Newham 7 
			 North Hertfordshire 1 
			 North Lincolnshire UA * 
			 Norwich 1 
			 Nottingham UA * 
			 Oxford 1 
			 Peterborough UA 1 
			 Plymouth UA (45) 
			 Purbeck (45) 
			 Reading UA 1 
			 Redbridge 2 
			 Rhondda, Cynon, Taff (45) 
			 Richmond upon Thames 1 
			 Salford 1 
			 Scottish Borders, The * 
			 Sheffield 1 
			 Slough UA 1 
			 South Lakeland 1 
			 Southwark 2 
			 Stockton-on-Tees UA (45) 
			 Sutton 1 
			 Swindon UA 1 
			 Tower Hamlets 2 
			 Trafford 1 
			 Tunbridge Wells 1 
			 Waltham Forest 3 
			 Wandsworth 3 
			 Warrington UA (45) 
			 Wellingborough * 
			 Westminster 3 
			 Wokingham UA 1 
			 Worcester * 
		
	
	(43) Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia.
	(44) Sample numbers insufficient to provide estimates for other areas.
	(45) Less than 500.
	Note:
	Estimates are subject to sampling variability.
	Source:
	Annual Population Survey.

HM Revenue and Customs (Isle of Wight)

Andrew Turner: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment has been made by HM Revenue and Customs of the likely impact of the removal of processing and compliance work from the Newport, Isle of Wight, office on (a) residents and (b) local businesses on the Isle of Wight.

Dawn Primarolo: HMRC carries out a detailed social, economic and service delivery impact assessment as part of the process at looking at individual locations which may be subject to reorganisation. This assessment also looks at the effect on staff and the provision of services for customers.
	As a result of this assessment, HMRC will continue to retain a presence on the Isle of Wight including an inquiry centre.

Inheritance Tax

Ian Gibson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to change the rules on inheritance tax.

Dawn Primarolo: All aspects of the tax system are kept under review.

Microgeneration

Alan Simpson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what (a) fiscal and (b) legal measures his Department is supporting to promote microgeneration in domestic energy efficiency programmes.

John Healey: The Government have introduced a reduced rate of VAT of 5 per cent. for the installation of a range of microgeneration technologies. This rate applies to solar panels, wind turbines, water turbines, ground-source heat pumps, air-source heat pumps, micro-combined heat and power generators and wood-fuelled boilers.

Mortality Rates (Hyndburn)

Greg Pope: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the (a) mortality rate for (i) chronic lung disease, (ii) coronary heart disease and (iii) all forms of cancer, (b) neo-natal mortality rate and (c) perinatal mortality rate was in Hyndburn in (A) 1997 and (B) the last year for which figures are available.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your recent question concerning what the (a) mortality rate for (i) chronic lung disease, (ii) coronary heart disease and (iii) all forms of cancer, (b) neonatal mortality rate and (c) perinatal mortality rate was in Hyndburn in (A) 1997 and (B) the last year for which figures are available. I am replying in her absence. (57567)
	The latest year for which figures are available is 2004. These are provided in the table below. The table also shows figures for 1997, adjusted to take account of revisions to the International Classification of Diseases, where appropriate.
	
		Death rates(46) from chronic lung disease, malignant cancers and coronary heart disease(47) and neonatal(48) and perinatal(49) death rates for Hyndburn local authority(50) 1997 and 2004(51)
		
			  Mortality rates 
			  1997 2004 
		
		
			 Chronic lung disease 83.3 34.0 
			 Cancer 224.4 187.9 
			 Coronary heart disease 223.6 134.8 
			
			 Neonatal deaths 7.5 6.3 
			 Perinatal deaths 13.1 9.9 
		
	
	(46) Rates per 100,000 population standardised to the European Standard Population.
	(47) The causes of death for 2004 were defined using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10)
	Chronic lung disease (Chronic lower respiratory disease)ICD-10 J40-J47
	Cancer (malignant neoplasms)ICD-10 C00-C97
	Coronary heart diseaseICD-10 120125
	Deaths were selected using the original underlying cause.
	The causes of death for 1997 were defined using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9).
	The codes used are listed:
	Chronic lung disease (Chronic lower respiratory disease)ICD-9 490494, 496
	Cancer (malignant neoplasms)ICD-9 140208
	Coronary heart diseaseICD-9 410414
	The introduction of ICD-10 for coding cause of death in England and Wales in 2001 means that data for chronic lung disease and cancer are not completely comparable with data for years before this date. The effect of the change in classification in 2001 on deaths from these causes is described in a report published in May 2002:
	Office for National Statistics. Results of the ICD-10 bridge coding study, England and Wales, 1999. Health Statistics Quarterly 14 (2002), 7583.
	For chronic lung disease (chronic lower respiratory disease) and cancer (malignant neoplasms) the introduction of ICD-10 caused an increase of 3.2% and 2.3% respectively in the number of deaths coded to these conditions in England and Wales. Deaths in 1997 from these causes have been adjusted to provide rates which are comparable with those for 2004.
	(48) Deaths under four weeks per 1,000 live births.
	(49) Deaths under one week plus stillbirths per 1,000 total live and stillbirths.
	(50) Usual residents of Hyndburn local authority. Deaths were assigned to this area using the November 2005 All Fields Postcode Directory.
	(51) Deaths registered in each calendar year.

Northern Ireland Nationals

Chris Ruane: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people living in (a) Scotland, (b) England and (c) Wales in 2001 were born in Northern Ireland, broken down by age band.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the national statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your recent question asking how many people living in (a) Scotland, (b) England and (c) Wales in 2001 were born in Northern Ireland, broken down by age. I am replying in her absence. (57371)
	The answers to this question can be obtained from the population censuses undertaken in England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in 2001. This letter provides the information requested on England and Wales. All enquiries for Scottish 2001 Census data should be directed to the General Register Office Scotland.
	A special analysis (known as C0643) has been run to identify the number of people living in England and Wales on Census day (29 April 2001) who were born in Northern Ireland, broken down by single year of age. This table has been placed in the House of Commons Library and can also be requested from 2001 Census Customer Services census.customerservices@ons.gsi.gov.uk
	Yours sincerely
	
		Table C0643: Age by country of birthPopulation: residents with country of birth in Northern IrelandGeographical level: England; Wales
		
			 List of water tables Rows 
		
		
			 1. England 10123 
			 2. Wales/Cymru 125238 
		
	
	
		
			 England  
			 Years Northern Ireland 
		
		
			 Total 215,127 
			 0 218 
			 1 376 
			 2 424 
			 3 466 
			 4 506 
			 5 460 
			 6 495 
			 7 541 
			 8 557 
			 9 505 
			 10 552 
			 11 557 
			 12 620 
			 13 606 
			 14 776 
			 15 841 
			 16 799 
			 17 936 
			 18 1,117 
			 19 1,834 
			 20 2,276 
			 21 2,420 
			 22 2.507 
			 23 2.409 
			 24 2,530 
			 25 2,738 
			 26 3,024 
			 27 3,033 
			 28 3,474 
			 29 3,672 
			 30 3,735 
			 31 3,778 
			 32 3,898 
			 33 4,031 
			 34 3,886 
			 35 3,921 
			 36 4,017 
			 37 3,863 
			 38 3,768 
			 39 3,583 
			 40 3,612 
			 41 3,483 
			 42 3,417 
			 43 3,414 
			 44 3,524 
			 45 3,651 
			 46 3,696 
			 47 3,832 
			 48 4,022 
			 49 3,867 
			 50 3,939 
			 51 3,879 
			 52 4,020 
			 53 4,181 
			 54 4,264 
			 55 3,739 
			 56 4,015 
			 57 4,081 
			 58 4,217 
			 59 3,659 
			 60 3,033 
			 61 3,153 
			 62 2,983 
			 63 2,847 
			 64 2,916 
			 65 2,838 
			 66 2,698 
			 67 2,665 
			 68 2,454 
			 69 2,498 
			 70 2,341 
			 71 2,337 
			 72 2,245 
			 73 2,035 
			 74 2,113 
			 75 2,072 
			 76 1,942 
			 77 2,003 
			 78 1,941 
			 79 1,793 
			 80 1,766 
			 81 1,611 
			 82 1,120 
			 83 880 
			 84 820 
			 85 722 
			 86 687 
			 87 566 
			 88 419 
			 89 345 
			 90 257 
			 91 214 
			 92 162 
			 93 127 
			 94 81 
			 95 50 
			 96 39 
			 97 25 
			 98 16 
			 99 23 
			 100 14 
			 101 6 
			 102 3 
			 103 3 
			 104 0 
			 105 3 
		
	
	
		
			 Wales/Cymru  
			 Years Northern Ireland 
		
		
			 Total 7,847 
			 0 16 
			 1 12 
			 2 22 
			 3 19 
			 4 22 
			 5 24 
			 6 43 
			 7 36 
			 8 32 
			 9 35 
			 10 34 
			 11 33 
			 12 30 
			 13 33 
			 14 38 
			 15 36 
			 16 29 
			 17 36 
			 18 59 
			 19 93 
			 20 116 
			 21 116 
			 22 76 
			 23 71 
			 24 92 
			 25 89 
			 26 76 
			 27 84 
			 28 102 
			 29 115 
			 30 98 
			 31 129 
			 32 143 
			 33 118 
			 34 157 
			 35 139 
			 36 135 
			 37 106 
			 38 120 
			 39 126 
			 40 112 
			 41 104 
			 42 102 
			 43 131 
			 44 110 
			 45 156 
			 46 128 
			 47 154 
			 48 137 
			 49 163 
			 50 138 
			 51 125 
			 52 148 
			 53 153 
			 54 175 
			 55 154 
			 56 138 
			 57 152 
			 58 162 
			 59 179 
			 60 94 
			 61 107 
			 62 108 
			 63 102 
			 64 84 
			 65 81 
			 66 81 
			 67 90 
			 68 83 
			 69 73 
			 70 81 
			 71 94 
			 72 82 
			 73 61 
			 74 89 
			 75 80 
			 76 72 
			 77 77 
			 78 84 
			 79 84 
			 80 64 
			 81 81 
			 82 49 
			 83 22 
			 84 37 
			 85 41 
			 86 35 
			 87 22 
			 88 19 
			 89 19 
			 90 13 
			 91 6 
			 92 7 
			 93 4 
			 94 4 
			 95 3 
			 96 0 
			 97 0 
			 98 0 
			 99 3 
			 100 0 
			 101 0 
			 102 0 
			 103 0 
			 104 0 
			 105 0 
		
	
	Notes:
	1. Cells have been randomly adjusted to avoid the release of confidential data.
	2. Created on 8 March 2006.
	Source:
	2001 Census.

Population Statistics

David Drew: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what his estimate is of the population of (a) Gloucestershire and (b) Stroud constituency; and what assessment he has made of the likely population growth in each area in each of the next 10 years.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician, who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your question regarding estimates of the population of (a) Gloucestershire and (b) the Stroud constituency and population growth in the next 10 years. I am replying in her absence. (57239)
	The attached table provides the mid-2004 estimate of population, the latest available. The table also shows population projections and growth for Gloucestershire for mid-2005 to mid-2016. These projections are based on mid-2003 population estimates and are the latest projections available. They assume that local trends in fertility, mortality and migration over the reference period 1999 to 2003 will continue into the future. Therefore they may not be directly comparable with the mid-2004 population estimate.
	The Office for National Statistics does not currently produce mid-year population estimates or projections by parliamentary constituency. The most recent population figure available for the Stroud parliamentary constituency is from the 2001 Census, and is 100,299 people.
	
		Mid-2004 population estimates and 2003-based subnational population projections for Gloucestershire
		
			 Thousands 
			  Population Projected growth 
		
		
			 2004 572.8  
			 2005 574.6  
			 2006 577.7 +3.1 
			 2007 580.9 +3.2 
			 2008 584.1 +3.1 
			 2009 587.1 +3.1 
			 2010 590.2 +3.1 
			 2011 593.3 +3.1 
			 2012 596.5 +3.2 
			 2013 599.7 +3.2 
			 2014 602.9 +3.2 
			 2015 606.1 +3.3 
			 2016 609.4 +3.3 
		
	
	Notes:
	1. The population projections shown in this table are taken from the 2003-based subnational population projections, the latest set of projections currently available. Therefore they may not be directly comparable with the mid-2004 population estimate presented in the first row.
	2. Figures are rounded to the nearest 100.
	Source:
	Office for National Statistics.

Population Statistics

Mark Hoban: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the population was of (a) each borough in Hampshire, (b) Southampton and (c) Portsmouth in each year since 1997.

John Healey: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician who has been asked to reply.
	Letter from Colin Mowl, dated 13 March 2006
	The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your question regarding estimates of the population of (a) each borough in Hampshire, (b) Southampton (c) Portsmouth in each year since 1997. I am replying in her absence. (57923).
	The table below provides the requested information. More detailed information is available from the National Statistics Website and is linked from the following page: www.statistics.gov.uk/popset under Population EstimatesCurrent Datasets.
	
		Mid-1997 to mid-2004 Population Estimates for Hampshire boroughs, Southampton UA and Portsmouth UA
		
			 Thousand 
			  1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 
		
		
			 Hampshire 1,217.8 1,223.0 1,232.8 1,236.4 1,241.4 1,244.7 1,251.0 1,253.4 
			  
			 Basingstoke and Deane 149.2 149.2 151.2 152.2 152.9 153.5 154.4 155.4 
			 East Hampshire 108.5 107.8 108.6 108.8 109.4 109.8 110.2 110.7 
			 Eastleigh 111.0 111.1 114.5 115.9 116.3 116.0 115.9 116.0 
			 Fareham 105.3 105.7 106.2 107.1 108.2 108.6 109.0 108.7 
			 Gosport 76.9 76.8 76.4 76.8 76.7 76.8 77.4 77.0 
			 Hart 82.9 82.6 83.0 83.1 83.6 84.5 85.7 86.7 
			 Havant 116.8 117.0 117.3 117.3 116.9 116.6 116.3 115.7 
			 New Forest 168.6 168.5 169.2 169.3 169.5 170.4 171.2 171.5 
			 Rushmoor 86.9 89.2 90.5 89.4 90.9 90.1 90.0 88.8 
			 Test Valley 106.6 108.3 108.7 109.3 110.0 110.4 111.3 111.8 
			 Winchester 105.2 106.9 107.3 107.4 107.3 108.1 109.6 111.0 
			  
			 Portsmouth UA 189.4 189.1 187.8 187.8 188.0 188.3 188.7 188.5 
			 Southampton UA 213.7 215.5 216.1 217.3 219.5 220.4 221.1 221.2 
		
	
	Source:
	Office for National Statistics

Private Buildings (VAT)

John Whittingdale: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will apply to the European Commission to exercise an option to introduce a reduced rate of VAT on the labour input of renovation and repair work to private buildings; and if he will make a statement.

Dawn Primarolo: The Government have only introduced reduced rates where they offer the best-targeted and most efficient support for our social objectives. The VAT reduced rate for the renovation and repair of private dwellings is one of a number of reduced rates introduced into EU legislation on an experimental basis whose objective is to create employment opportunities by stimulating demand through lower prices. The Government have always chosen not to participate, as we believe that our employment objectives are better targeted through measures such as the welfare to work strategy and new deal, which have contributed to the 2.3 million rise in employment since 1997.

Securities Transactions

Mark Hoban: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what discussions he has had with the European Commission on the implications for UK tax revenues of cross-border clearance and settlement of securities transactions within the European Union.

Dawn Primarolo: There have been no such discussions.

Tax Credits

David Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many tax credit claimants are receiving regular manual payments as a result of computer error.

Dawn Primarolo: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Fareham (Mr. Hoban) on 7 March 2006, Official Report, column 130506W.

Tax Credits

David Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what alterations are being made to his Department's computer system for the change to the tax credit disregard level in April 2006.

Dawn Primarolo: The tax credit computer system will change the value of the income disregard figure from 2,500 to 25,000.

Tax Credits

David Laws: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many referrals members of staff at the tax credit office made to their IT support system in (a) 200304, (b) 200405 and (c) 200506 to date.

Dawn Primarolo: The information is not available.

Tax Credits

Mark Hoban: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 7 March 2006 to questions 50599 and 50642, on tax credits, for what reason claimants are receiving regular manual payments instead of automated payments; when such payments first started to be made; how many unposted individual cheque encashments there were at the end of each month since April 2005; and what steps are being taken to ensure that all claimants receive regular automatic payments.

Dawn Primarolo: For the reasons for issuing manual payments I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Birmingham, Yardley (John Hemming) on 10 October 2005, Official Report, column 325W.
	Manual payments have been issued, where necessary, since tax credits were introduced in April 2003.
	The number of unposted individual cheque encashments for each month since April 2005 is not available.
	HMRC seeks to put automated payments in place as quickly as possible.

VAT Relief (Antiques)

Greg Hands: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether an item imported to the United Kingdom over 100 years after its production is eligible for antique value added tax relief; and if he will make a statement.

Dawn Primarolo: Antiques which are in excess of 100-years-old which are not a work of art or pearls or loose gemstones are eligible for a reduced valuation on importation under section 21(4) and section 21(5)(c) of the Value Added Tax Act 1994 as amended.

Volunteer-run Post Offices

Tim Farron: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will introduce a zero tax band for volunteer-run post offices.

Dawn Primarolo: The Government keep all taxes under review and any changes to taxation are considered as part of the normal Budget process. ????????

CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS

Clinical Negligence

John Baron: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs pursuant to the answer of 17 January 2006, Official Report, column 1211W, on clinical negligence, what proportion of the legally-aided clinical negligence cases that were closed in the last year in which the solicitors reported a substantive benefit to the client were settled without regard to the merits of the case and for reasons of the health service defendant seeking to avoid or limit irrecoverable legal costs.

Bridget Prentice: The Legal Services Commission (LSC) does not hold information on the reasons why defendants settled out of court in cases where they have funded the plaintiff.

Coroners (Northern Ireland)

Mark Durkan: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs how many coroner's cases in Northern Ireland have yet to be concluded; what the average time taken for the completion of a coroner's case was in each of the last five years; when the longest outstanding coroner's case commenced; and what plans she has to allocate additional resources to the coroner's office.

Bridget Prentice: On 8 March 2006 1,326 cases which had been reported to the coroner were awaiting a determination.
	Information on the average time taken for the completion of a coroner's case is not available. A new IT system has recently been introduced in the coroner's office which will allow this information to be provided in future years.
	The longest outstanding case currently awaiting determination was received in 1990 and relates to two deaths on 9 October 1990.
	A range of improvements to the coroner service for Northern Ireland are being introduced from 3 April this year. Under these improvements the coroner service will be headed by a High Court Judge supported by three full-time coroners. Additional staff resources, including coroners' liaison officers, will be appointed to improve liaison with bereaved families.

Electoral Reform

James Duddridge: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what representations she has received from the Association of Electoral Administrators concerning electoral modernisation.

Harriet Harman: My Department regularly communicates with the Association of Electoral Administrators about improvements to electoral administration. This includes modernisation work such as the Co-ordinated Online Record of Electors (CORE) and the Electoral Modernisation Pilots at the May 2006 local elections that I announced to the House on 14 February 2006. This communication includes informal discussions, work on specific projects, including having AEA representatives on a number of project boards, and occasionally formal responses to consultation exercises such as that recently conducted on CORE, to which the association itself, and a number of its branches, have recently provided a response.

Legal Aid (Northern Ireland)

William McCrea: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs how many people have been granted legal aid in each Northern Ireland parliamentary constituency during the last 12 months.

Bridget Prentice: The number of applications for legal aid granted in 200405 is 38,151 and is broken down as follows:
	
		
			  Granted 
		
		
			 Assistance by Way of Representation 4,186 
			 Children Order 4,712 
			 Civil Legal Aid 8,825 
			 Criminal Legal Aid 20,428 
		
	
	In addition, there were 55,904 claims for (Green Form) Legal Advice and Assistance in 200405.
	To provide the information by constituency would involve a manual review of records. Given the large number of cases involved this would incur a disproportionate cost.

Personal Injury Claims

Lindsay Hoyle: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs 
	(1)  what assessment has been made of the effect of increasing the small claims limit for personal injury claims to 5,000 on the number of (a) individuals (i) seeking legal advice and (ii) using solicitors and (b) cases being taken to the Small Claims Court;
	(2)  what assessment she has made of the recommendation by the Better Regulation Task Force to increase the small claims limit for personal injury claims to 5,000; and if she will make a statement.

Bridget Prentice: The Better Regulation Task Force in its report, 'Better Routes to Redress' recommended that research should be carried out into the potential impact of raising the small claims limit for personal injury cases from the current limit of 1,000. The Government indicated that it would carry out this research and would also consider other options for dealing with these claims in a more proportionate and cost effective way. This work is currently under way.

Specialist Advice

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what representations she has received from citizens advice bureaux in (a) England and (b) Staffordshire on the decision of the Legal Services Commission to withdraw funding for specialist advice on complex cases.

Bridget Prentice: To date, the Department has received:
	90 for the whole of England
	None for Staffordshire

Specialist Advice

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs if she will make a statement on the decision of the Legal Services Commission to withdraw funding for specialist support from Citizens Advice Bureaux.

Bridget Prentice: I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Twickenham (Dr. Cable) on 2 March 2006, Official Report, column 932W.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

Citibank

Angus MacNeil: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when (a) he and (b) officials from his Department last met officials from Citibank International plc.

Barry Gardiner: Neither my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry nor any DTI officials have ever met with Citibank International plc. about the Post Office Card Account.

Citizen's Advice

Peter Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the planned funding is for the national organisation of Citizen's Advice in 200607; and how much funding was provided in each of the last five years.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The Department has not yet decided on the level of funding for Citizens Advice in 200607. Information on the amount of DTI funding for Citizens Advice for past financial years is published in their Annual Reports, copies of which are in the Libraries of the House.

Citizen's Advice

Ben Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what funding the Department have made available to Citizens Advice Bureaux in 200506; and whether the Department attaches conditions on geographical distribution to the funding.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The Department provides funding for Citizens Advice, the national umbrella organisation for the Citizens Advice service in England and Wales. It also provides funding for Citizens Advice Scotland. It does not provide any funding for the individual Citizens Advice Bureaux in the UK.

Correspondence

Gerald Kaufman: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he intends to answer the letter dated 12 December 2005 from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton, with regard to Mr. Paul Miller transferred by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions.

Alan Johnson: I responded to my right hon. Friend's letter on 12 January. It has also been passed to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to reply to issues within their portfolio that your constituent raised.

Counterfeit Packaging

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will seek to legislate against the use of counterfeit packaging.

Barry Gardiner: The Government are not convinced that the law is deficient in this specific area.
	However the Government have identified counterfeiting and piracy as a growing international threat and work has been moving forward through the multi agency National IP Crime Group, involving Government, enforcement and key industry sectors to deliver better-targeted enforcement action. Within the National IP Crime Group a specific Brands Expert Group is expressly looking at counterfeiting issues and practices related to product packaging.
	We have also asked Andrew Gowers to lead an independent review of the UK's intellectual property framework. It will examine whether improvements could be made, especially in the context of rapid technological change and globalisation. The review team's call for evidence is available on the Review website at www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/gowers
	Moreover the Government will continue to take an active part in discussions within the European Community on the legal framework for enforcement, taking account of the interests of consumers and brand owners.

Departmental Equipment

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many (a) laptops and (b) mobile phones his Department bought in each year since 1997; and what the cost of each category of equipment was in each year.

Alan Johnson: My Department does not buy but leases mobile phones and IT equipment including laptops.
	Occasionally it is necessary to buy items directly but this information is not held centrally and can be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
	This information covers the central Department. It does not include Executive Agencies who have devolved responsibility for IT security and expenditure.

Economic Competitiveness

Adam Afriyie: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry which international economic competitiveness data are taken into account by his Department when ranking the position of the UK against other countries as an international competitor.

Alan Johnson: A wide range of organisations such as KPMG and the World Economic Forum produce international competitiveness rankings, based on a variety of criteria. In addition, the Department produces an annual update of the Productivity and Competitiveness Indicators, which benchmark UK performance against the US, France and Germany. These look at performance on the Government's five key drivers of productivity, and, overall, give reason for optimism regarding UK productivity performance. But the real measures of the competitiveness of an economy is how well it is performing. On the basis the UK is doing well. GDP has grown for 54 consecutive quarters, the longest sustained expansion on record; the UK's employment rate is the highest among the G7 economies (bar Canada); and we are enjoying the longest period of sustained low inflation since the 1960s.

Emergency Services

Geoffrey Cox: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the prevalence of hotels and other businesses barring direct calls to the emergency services; if he will introduce legislation to require direct connection to the emergency services by dialing 999 or 112 from any telephone; and if he will make a statement.

Alun Michael: The matter raised is the responsibility of the Regulator, the Office of Communications (Ofcom), which is accountable to Parliament rather than to Ministers. Accordingly, I have asked the chief executive of Ofcom to consider the issues raised by this question and both reply directly to the hon. Member and to provide any appropriate advice to Ministers. Copies of the chief executive's letter will be placed in the Libraries of the House.

Energy Statistics (Scotland)

Alistair Carmichael: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the (a) potential and (b) actual energy output from each power station in Scotland was in each year since 1997.

Malcolm Wicks: The Department collects information from electricity generating companies on the basis that information relating to individual companies is not disclosed in published statistics unless they are already publicly available. The available information on power stations in Scotland is contained in Table 5.11 of Chapter 5 of the Digest of United Kingdom Energy Statistics 2005, a copy of which is in the Libraries of the House and also available on the DTI website at www.dti.gov.uk/energy/inform/dukes/index.shtml. An extract showing only those power stations located in Scotland is given as follows along with the load factors for the latest available year (2004). Actual output is capacity multiplied by load factor multiplied by the number of hours in a year:
	
		
			 Power station name Company name Fuel Installed capacity (MW) Year(52) 
		
		
			 Ardrossan Airtricity Wind 24 2004 
			 Fort William Alcan Hydro 62 1929 
			 Kinlochleven Alcan Hydro 30 1907 
			 Bein Ghlas Beaufort Wind Ltd Wind 8 1999 
			 Novar Beaufort Wind Ltd Wind 17 1997 
			 Hunterston B British Energy Nuclear 1,190 1976 
			 Torness British Energy Nuclear 1,250 1988 
			 Bowbeat E.on UK Wind 31 2002 
			 Deucheran Hill E.on UK Wind 16 2001 
			 Causeymire Npower Renewables Wind 48 2004 
			 Windy Standard Npower Renewables Wind 22 1996 
			 Achanalt Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 3 1956 
			 Aigas Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 20 1962 
			 Alt-na-Lairgie Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 6 1956 
			 Arnish Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 3 2001 
			 Barra Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 2 1990 
			 Bowmore Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 6 1946 
			 Cashile Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 11 1959 
			 Cassley Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 10 1959 
			 Ceannacroc Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 20 1956 
			 Chliostair Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 1 1960 
			 Clachan Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 40 1955 
			 Clunie Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 61 1950 
			 Cuaich Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 3 1959 
			 Cuileag Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 3 2002 
			 Culligran Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 19.1 1962 
			 Dalchonzie Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 4 1958 
			 Deanie Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 38 1963 
			 Errochty Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 75 1955 
			 Fasnakyle Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 69 1951 
			 Fife Power Station Scottish  Southern Energy plc CCGT 120 2000 
			 Finlarig Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 17 1955 
			 Foyers Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro/Pumped Storage 300 1974 
			 Foyers Falls Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 5 1968 
			 Gaur Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 8 1953 
			 Glenmoriston Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 37 1957 
			 Grudie Bridge Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 19 1950 
			 Inverawe Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 25 1963 
			 Ivergarry Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 20 1956 
			 Kerry Falls Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 1 1951 
			 Kilmelfort Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 2 1956 
			 Kilmorack Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 20 1962 
			 Kingairloch Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 4 2005 
			 Kirkwall Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 16 1953 
			 Lairg Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 4 1959 
			 Lednock Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 3 1961 
			 Lerwick Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 67 1953 
			 Livishie Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 15 1962 
			 Loch Carnan, South Uist Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 12 1971 
			 Loch Dubh Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 1 1954 
			 Loch Ericht Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 21 1962 
			 Loch Gair Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 6 1961 
			 Lochay Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 47 1958 
			 Lubreoch Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 4 1958 
			 Luichart Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 34 1954 
			 Lussa Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 2 1952 
			 Mossford Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 19 1957 
			 Mucomir Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 2 1962 
			 Mullardoch Tunnel Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 2.4 1955 
			 Nant Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 15 1963 
			 Nostie Bridge Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 1 1950 
			 Orrin Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 18 1959 
			 Peterhead Scottish  Southern Energy plc CCGT Oil/Gas 1,540 1980 
			 Pitlochry Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 15 1950 
			 Quoich Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 19 1955 
			 Rannoch Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 44 1930 
			 Shin Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 19 1958 
			 Sloy Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 153 1950 
			 Spurness Scottish  Southern Energy plc Wind 8 2004 
			 Sron Mor Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 5 1957 
			 St. Fillans Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 17 1957 
			 Stornoway Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 24 1950 
			 Storr Lochs Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 2 1952 
			 Striven Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 8 1951 
			 Tangy Scottish  Southern Energy plc Wind 13 2002 
			 Tiree Scottish  Southern Energy plc Diesel 3 1945 
			 Torr Achilty Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 15 1954 
			 Tummel Scottish  Southern Energy plc Hydro 34 1933 
			 Bein au Tuirc Scottish Power Wind 30 2002 
			 Bonnington Scottish Power Hydro 11 1927 
			 Carsfad Scottish Power Hydro 12 1936 
			 Cockenzie Scottish Power Coal 1,152 1967 
			 Crauch Mhor Scottish Power Wind 30 2004 
			 Crauchan Scottish Power Pumped Storage 399 1966 
			 Drumjohn Scottish Power Hydro 2 1985 
			 Dun Law Scottish Power Wind 17 2000 
			 Earlstoun Scottish Power Hydro 14 1936 
			 Glenlee Scottish Power Hydro 24 1935 
			 Hagshaw Hill Scottish Power Wind 16 1995 
			 Hare Hill SP Scottish Power Wind 13 2000 
			 Kendoon Scottish Power Hydro 24 1936 
			 Longannet Scottish Power Coal 2,304 1970 
			 Stonebyres Scottish Power Hydro 5 1927 
			 Tongland Scottish Power Hydro 33 1935 
		
	
	(52) Year of commission or year generation began.
	
		
			 Plant load factor Percentage 
		
		
			 Combined cycle gas turbine stations 60.3 
			 Nuclear stations 71.9 
			   
			 Hydro-electric stations  
			 Natural flow 37.2 
			 Pumped storage 10.5 
			   
			 Conventional thermal and other stations(53) 47.7 
			 Of which:  
			 coal-fired stations 62.0 
			   
			 Wind (onshore) 26.6 
		
	
	(53) Conventional steam plants, gas turbines and oil engines and plants producing electricity from renewable sources other than hydro and wind.

Farnborough Air Show

Nick Harvey: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what support his Department is giving to the organisers of the Farnborough Air Show; and whether his Department is providing assistance to enable overseas visitors to attend.

Alun Michael: Farnborough received high-level UK Government backing from UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) (which is sponsored jointly by the Department of Trade and Industry and the Foreign Office) as well as from DTI itself and from devolved Administrations, regional organisations, the Ministry of Defence.
	UKTI, the Defence Exports Services Organisation and Scottish Development International are all collaborating with the Society of British Aerospace Companies to ensure a co-ordinated government and industry approach at the show.
	In particular UKTI is providing logistical and financial support to a series of carefully structured meetings between prospective overseas buyers/investors and UK industry. Some 40 overseas companies will be hosted by UKTI and will meet up to 200 UK companies in structured meetings.
	The value of this type of activity was proven at the Farnborough International 2004 to have generated over 3.3 million of business to UK SMEs.
	There will also be a strong regional government presence at the show supporting regional initiatives and activities.

Fuel Poverty

Sandra Gidley: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the recent energy price increase on the number of people in fuel poverty; and if he will make a statement.

Malcolm Wicks: Analysis of the overall effects of changes in fuel prices and incomes, excluding consideration of energy efficiency improvements, suggests that the total number of vulnerable households in fuel poverty is likely to rise by around one million households in England between 2003 and 2006, with a proportionate increase in the devolved Administrations. This is based on a range of price and income assumptions underlying the Energy Review consultation document published on 23 January 2006.
	Work on the best way to tackle fuel poverty in the light of rising energy prices is being taken forward in the context of the Energy Review.
	A household is said to be fuel poor if it needs to spend more than 10 per cent. of its income on all fuel use and to heat the home to an adequate standard of warmth. A vulnerable household is one containing children or someone who is elderly, or sick or disabled.

Gas and Electricity Prices

Mark Lancaster: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the average price of (a) gas and (b) electricity was in each year since 1997.

Malcolm Wicks: Prices for gas and electricity are shown for domestic and industrial consumers. The average annual prices for each fuel since 1997 in pence per kilowatt-hour (p/kWh) are as follows. These are in cash terms and have not been adjusted for inflation.
	
		
			  Domestic (p/kWh) Industrial (p/kWh) 
			  Gas Electricity Gas Electricity 
		
		
			 1997 1.8 7.6 0.6 4.0 
			 1998 1.7 7.3 0.6 3.9 
			 1999 1.7 7.2 0.6 4.0 
			 2000 1.7 7.1 0.6 3.7 
			 2001 1.7 7.0 0.9 3.6 
			 2002 1.8 7.0 0.9 3.5 
			 2003 1.9 7.1 0.9 3.4 
			 2004 2.0 7.5 1.0 3.7 
			 2005p 2.2 8.2 1.2 4.6

Gershon Review

Greg Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what administrative savings, including reductions in administrative staff, have been made by the Natural Environment Research Council as part of the Gershon Review.

Barry Gardiner: holding answer 9 March 2006
	As part of the Gershon review, the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) has agreed to save a total 22.6 million, including administrative savings of 800,000, by the end of 200708. This is part of the Research Councils contribution of 170 million towards the DTI efficiency delivery program. NERC is currently ahead of its agreed target towards achieving this.

National Transmission System

Robert Smith: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the impact on the wholesale gas market of the increased information available on flows of gas into the National Transmission System through the programme sponsored by his Department.

Malcolm Wicks: Increased information flows have been made available this winter through National Grid's website as the result of voluntary arrangements agreed with the oil and gas production industry. The Department will be reviewing the benefits that have accrued as a result as well as the scope for provisions of information about other factors affecting gas flows into the National Transmission System.

New Businesses

Michael Penning: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what percentage of businesses in (a) Hertfordshire and (b) South-East England were start-up businesses in each year since 1997; and if he will make a statement.

Alun Michael: DTI figures based on the ratio of new VAT registrations to total VAT registered stock for Hertfordshire and the South and Eastern Government Office Regions of England are shown below for 1997 to 2005. Data for 2006 will be available in autumn 2006.
	
		Ratio of new VAT registrations in the previous 12 months to the registered stock at the start of the year 
		
			 Percentage 
			  1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 
		
		
			 Hertfordshire 11 12 12 11 11 10 10 11 10 
			 East Government Office Region 10 11 10 10 10 9 10 10 10 
			 London Government Office Region 13 14 14 13 13 12 12 13 12 
			 South East Government Office Region 11 12 11 11 10 10 10 11 10 
		
	
	Source:
	Data derived from Business Start-ups and Closures: VAT Registrations and De-registrations 19942004, Small Business Service, available in the Library of the House and also at http://www.sbs.gov.uk/vats
	VAT registrations only provide a broad indicator of business start-up activity, since they do not capture all new businesses. Businesses are unlikely to be registered if they fall below the compulsory VAT threshold (currently 60,000). Only 1.8 million out of 4.3 million enterprises were registered for VAT at they start of 2004. Barclays Bank produce estimates of start-ups based on business bank account activity, which include non-VAT registered firms. According to Barclays there were 8,500 business start-ups in Hertfordshire in 2003 and further 8,600 in 2004. Data on the total number of businesses is not available at county level.
	DTI figures based on the ratio of Barclays new business start-ups in 2003 to the total number of businesses in 2003, show that new businesses accounted for 11 per cent. of all businesses in the East of England Government Office Region, 13 per cent. of all businesses in the London Government Office Region and 11 per cent. of all businesses in the South East Government Office Region. Data prior to 2003 are not available. Data for 2005 will be available in autumn 2006.

Post Office

Angus MacNeil: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many Post Office branches have closed in Scotland in each year since 1992.

Barry Gardiner: This is an operational matter for Post Office Ltd. (POL). Alan Cook, the Managing Director, has been asked to reply direct to the hon. Member.

Post Office

Clive Efford: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he has taken to ensure that companies awarded contracts to run main post offices employ properly trained and suitably skilled staff.

Barry Gardiner: This is an operational matter for Post Office Ltd. Alan Cook, the Managing Director, has been asked to reply direct to my hon. Friend.

Post Office

Clive Efford: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry 
	(1)  how many main post offices have been franchised to the private sector; and what steps he is taking to monitor (a) the quality of services they provide and (b) the number of complaints from the public;
	(2)  what steps he has taken to ensure that customers in-service levels are maintained when post offices are franchised to the private sector;
	(3)  whether he has evidence of companies applying for post office franchises under multiple names; and if he will make a statement;
	(4)  what steps he has taken to investigate the background of companies applying for post office franchises; and if he will make a statement.

Barry Gardiner: These are operational matters for Post Office Ltd. Alan Cook, the Managing Director, has been asked to reply direct to the hon. Member.

Post Office

Andrew Gwynne: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many post offices in (a) Tameside metropolitan borough and (b) Stockport metropolitan borough are franchised to the private sector; and what steps he is taking to monitor (i) the quality of service they provide and (ii) the number of complaints received from the public.

Barry Gardiner: This is an operational matter for Post Office Ltd. (POL). Alan Cook, the Managing Director, has been asked to reply direct to my hon. Friend.

Power Generators

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the Government's policy is on promoting demand side management by power generators.

Malcolm Wicks: This winter has seen substantial levels of demand reduction from gas-fired power generators as a normal commercial response to increases in the price of gas, suggesting that there is no need for Government to intervene to promote demand side response from this sector.

Research Station Closures

Greg Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the statutory bodies that have made submissions to the consultation on the proposed closure of four research stations run by the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.

Barry Gardiner: holding answer 9 March 2006
	The Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH) is wholly owned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). In December 2005, NERC announced a consultation on its proposals on how CEH can contribute to UK Environmental science on a sustainable basis.
	I have asked the chief executive of NERC to write to the hon. Member concerning his request.

Research Station Closures

Greg Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what recent developments there have been in the proposed closure of research stations run by the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.

Barry Gardiner: holding answer 9 March 2006
	The Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH) is wholly owned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). In December 2005, NERC announced a consultation on its proposals on how CEH can contribute to UK Environmental science on a sustainable basis. NERC Council met on 8 March 2006 to consider an assessment of the input to this consultation from stakeholders. NERC expects to announce Council's decision shortly.

Small Businesses

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what percentage of small businesses in the United Kingdom failed within their first year of operation in 2005.

Alun Michael: The Small Business Service uses VAT registration and de-registration data to estimate the failure rate of businesses. Businesses can be tracked from the time that they first register for VAT until the time they de-register. VAT data covers businesses of all sizes, although the majority of businesses which register for the first time are small.
	8 per cent. of UK businesses registering for VAT in 2003 had de-registered within one year. These data are available at www.sbs.gov.uk/survival. Figures for 2004 will be available in winter 200607.
	VAT registration and de-registration data do not capture all business activity. Businesses are unlikely to be registered if they fall below the compulsory VAT threshold. Similarly, businesses that de-register will not necessarily have failed. Only 1.8 million out of 4.3 million enterprises were registered for VAT at the start of 2004. Failure rates based on VAT data will therefore only provide an indication of true failure rates of small businesses.

South West Regional Development Agency

Ian Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the UK companies in each county in the South West Region which have received assistance from the South West Regional Development Agency since it was set up.

Alun Michael: I am told by the South West of England Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) that it delivers assistance to business in a variety of ways, some directly but a great deal indirectly through intermediary organisations, such as Marine South West, South West Food and Drink, and South West Screen. For the purposes of this reply I am including information where the RDA has provided direct financial assistance to companies.
	The Agency's ability to assist individual companies is limited, by EU State Aid Regulations. There are a number of State Aid Exemptions which allow financial assistance in particular circumstances, so the Agency's use of these schemes and the companies assisted are included at Annex A.
	The Agency has administered two DTI grantsEnterprise Grant Scheme, Regional Selective Assistance and currently administers a further twoSelective Finance for Investment in England, and Research and Development Grant scheme. Details of companies assisted through these grants are at Annex B.
	From this establishment, RDAs administered a number of programmes from successor organisations. The Redundant Building Grant provided financial assistance to a large number of private enterprises within de minimus State Aid regulations to assist with the refurbishment of redundant agricultural buildings. The Agency also administered a large number of small scale grants to companies during the foot and mouth crisis. Due to the large number of grants awarded, it is not possible to provide individual information on the companies assisted.
	Annex A
	Companies assisted through the Partnership Investment Programme (former English Partnerships State Aid exempt scheme) in Cornwall
	Estates and General Plc.Unit at Hayle Industrial Park.
	Charville Estates (Redruth) Ltd.Alma Place, Redruth
	Charville Estates (Penzance) Ltd.Wharfside Shopping Centre, Penzance Mylor
	Yacht Harbour Ltd.Mylor Yacht Harbour
	Midas Commercial Developments Ltd.Site F, Saltash Parkway
	Percy Williams and Sons Ltd.Back Lane West, Redruth
	Companies assisted though the State Aid exempt Gap funding scheme in Cornwall
	Tripos Receptor ResearchTripos Development, Bude
	Research Instruments
	Hydra
	Other State Aid exempt schemes
	Crest Nicholson, a developer on the Gloucester Docks project received grant assistance under an EU approved Heritage gap funding scheme for the refurbishment of the derelict Grade 2 listed Biddle and Shipton warehouse
	
		
			 Organisation(54) County/Unitary 
		
		
			 Team Innovation Ltd. Bath and North East Somerset Council 
			 Solicitors Own Software Ltd. Bath and North East Somerset Council 
			 Adams Racing Ltd. Bath and North East Somerset Council 
			 Mirage Inks Ltd. Bath and North East Somerset Council 
			 Sabertel Ltd. Bath and North East Somerset Council 
			 Clearspeed Technology Ltd. Bristol 
			 Qzym Ltd. Bristol 
			 INVRO Ltd. Bristol 
			 Diadem Audio Ltd Bristol 
			 Informs Ltd. Bristol 
			 (Dynamic Aspects Ltd. Bristol 
			 Seating Direct (International) Ltd. Bristol 
			 M-Stream Ltd. Bristol 
			 Tidal Generation Ltd. Bristol 
			 GO Science Ltd. Bristol 
			 Goingon Ltd. Cornwall 
			 R. F. Solutions Cornwall 
			 Silvertree Engineering Ltd. Cornwall 
			 Dispersed Music and Merchandising Systems Cornwall 
			 Kernow. Instrument Technology Ltd. Cornwall 
			 Hirst Magnetic Instruments Ltd. Cornwall 
			 Zoptic Ltd. Cornwall 
			 Triskel Marine Cornwall 
			 Windfarms Ltd. Cornwall 
			 Broadreach Systems Ltd. (Maurice Bard Ltd. and Associates) Devon 
			 Sifam Fibre Optics Limited Devon 
			 Advanced Control Research Ltd. Devon 
			 Daviron Instruments Ltd. Devon 
			 P. C. Maritime Ltd. Devon 
			 Auxetix Ltd. Devon 
			 Beran Instruments Ltd. Devon 
			 Merlin Systems Corporation Ltd. Devon 
			 Lapmaster International Ltd. Devon 
			 Advanced Energy Monitoring Systems Ltd. Devon 
			 B. J. Min Ltd. Devon 
			 Golfspeed International Limited Dorset 
			 Senscient Ltd. Dorset 
			 Procyon Instruments Ltd. Dorset 
			 J-Tech Developments Dorset 
			 Soundbyte Ltd. Dorset 
			 Quigley Associates Dorset 
			 British Autogard Ltd. Gloucestershire 
			 Vero International Software UK Ltd. Gloucestershire 
			 Mecwash Systems Ltd. Gloucestershire 
			 Howdon Power Transmission Ltd. Gloucestershire 
			 Unseen Technologies International Ltd. North Somerset 
			 Foundrax Engineering Products Ltd. Somerset 
			 TeleMedic Systems Somerset 
			 Snell 2000 Ltd. Somerset 
			 Tonedale Properties Ltd. Somerset 
			 Advanced Transport Systems Ltd. South Gloucestershire 
			 Maximedia Services Ltd. South Gloucestershire 
			 David Akerman Wiltshire 
			 Swindon Silicon Systems Wiltshire 
			 Romarsh Ltd. Wiltshire 
			 Sarum Biosciences Ltd. Wiltshire 
		
	
	(54) These are companies that have received Grant for Research and Development and some were selected for support before SWRDA took over management of the scheme from the Small Business Service (DTI)

South West Regional Development Agency

Ian Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the companies from overseas which have been brought to the South West by the regional development agency since it was set up; and what the location is in each case.

Alun Michael: I am advised by the South West of England regional development agency that the following table provides details of overseas companies and their locations in the South West that have been assisted by the agency since 1999.
	
		South West RDA successes 19992006
		
			 Company name Country of origin Location in SW Jobs created Jobs safeguarded 
			 1999 
		
		
			 Fazion (UK) Ltd. Italian Exeter 18  
			 STMicroelectronics French Bristol 90  
			 Arima Optoelectronic Taiwan Bath 10  
			 Interlog SL Spanish Kemble, Wilts 10 5 
			 Honda Lock Japan Swindon 10  
			 SDC Japan Swindon 100 50 
			 ABB Offshore Switzerland/Sweden Camborne  15 
			 E Toys USA Swindon 100  
			 Bristol  West Ireland Bristol 200  
			 Sabre USA Swindon 50  
			 TS Tech UK Ltd. Japan Swindon 110  
			 Hirata Parts (UK) Ltd. Japan Tewkesbury 100  
			 Nissin (UK) Ltd. Japan Swindon 40 40 
			 Honda Distribution Japan Bristol 125 150 
			 Avco Technologies Netherlands Swindon 30 50 
			 Standard Products USA Plymouth 100  
			 Orange Hong Kong Plymouth 1,100  
			 Sentinel USA Plymouth 200  
			 WRE/Unit e Germany Chippenham 20  
			 Arla Plastics Sweden Bristol 10  
			 Hasbro Interactive USA Chipping Sodbury 70 35 
			 OTS Dutch Weston-super-Mare 50  
			 Patheon Canada Swindon 50 400 
			 Total: 23   2,593 745 
			  
			 2000 
			 Crydom USA Wimborne 0 11 
			 Infolibria USA Swindon 12 0 
			 PHH Europe USA Trowbridge 10 0 
			 Sifam Fibre Optics Canada Torquay 1,000 0 
			 USIT Travel Eire Plymouth 260 0 
			 Honda Japan Swindon 30 0 
			 EAI USA Swindon 10 0 
			 Piping Hot Networks USA Plymouth 45 10 
			 Citronic Taiwan Melksham 0 18 
			 Pulsetec Japan Swindon 1 0 
			 Habit Diamond US Saltash 24 29 
			 Ohashi Technica Japan Swindon 20 0 
			 AMP US Plymouth 61 21 
			 Baldor UK Ltd. US Bristol 50 80 
			 Wavin Dutch Swindon 3 0 
			 Hunter Marine US Dorset 150 0 
			 Equitea Kenya Taunton 5 0 
			 Toshiba TRL Japan Bristol 6 14 
			 JDS Uniphase US Plymouth 1,042 0 
			 Orange France Plymouth 400 0 
			 Knight Marketing USA Buckfastleigh 6 0 
			 Marine Projects South Africa Plymouth 225 209 
			 Edward Jones USA Bristol 4 0 
			 NSK Japan Stroud 0 225 
			 Flight Visions UK Ltd. USA Langport 5 0 
			 Portland Bunkers Greece Portland 70 0 
			 Intercall USA Gloucester 100 30 
			 Chickmaster USA Bridgwater 0 70 
			 Magna Infotech USA Bristol 100 0 
			 Systest Labs USA Swindon 30 0 
			 Total: 30   3,669 717 
			  
			 2001 
			 Drytac Canada Bristol 0 15 
			 EAI USA Bristol 3 4 
			 Parametric USA Bristol 0 23 
			 Patheon Canada Swindon 61 0 
			 Boing Australia Bristol 100 0 
			 Vanbots Canada Swindon 0 20 
			 Plymouth Gin Sweden Plymouth 0 6 
			 Takao Europe Ltd. Japan Gloucester 45 0 
			 Multimedia Centre USA Bristol 6 0 
			 DEK USA Dorset 0 100 
			 Bam4Fun USA Bath 25 0 
			 Seamap Singapore Somerset 12 0 
			 Super H Japan/France Bristol 100 0 
			 Pulsic USA Bristol 8 8 
			 Cirbo Ltd. USA Bodmin 0 60 
			 CDC Systems Canada Gloucester 120 0 
			 TS Tech Japan Swindon 80 0 
			 Symmetry Medical USA Cheltenham 0 0 
			 SDC Japan Swindon 35 0 
			 Maxam Pneumatics/Parker  Hannafin USA Redruth 0 47 
			 IP Wireless USA Malmesbury 0 30 
			 Extended Systems USA Bristol 20 50 
			 Avimo Group Ltd. France Gloucester 5 0 
			 Total: 23   620 363 
			  
			 2002 
			 St. Aero/FR Aviation Singapore Bournemouth 200 0 
			 Borders Books USA St. Columb Major 60 57 
			 Mira Showers USA Gloucester 10 0 
			 TierOne OSS Technologies Canada Gloucester 40 0 
			 BAE/Sumtimo Japan Plymouth 200 0 
			 X-fab Semiconductor Foundries Germany Plymouth 0 180 
			 Specialist Aviation Services Dutch Gloucester 50 120 
			 Harwell Instruments France Dorset 0 20 
			 Tripos Receptor Research USA Bude 146 82 
			 Archos France Swindon 4 0 
			 Xist4 S.Africa Bristol 5 0 
			 Toshiba Japan Bristol 10 0 
			 Hirata Corporation of Europe Japan Swindon 34 16 
			 Abanaki USA Bristol 1 0 
			 Stralfors Sweden Falmouth 60 100 
			 Ari-Armaturen German Gloucester 11 0 
			 CMT Group India Exeter 50 16 
			 Transportes Carreras Spain Poole 5 0 
			 Kyocera Japan Bristol 8 0 
			 Synosoft/Pangaea India Gloucester 10 1 
			 Toyo Denso Japan Swindon 5 0 
			 Stanley Electric Japan Swindon 2 0 
			 Total: 22   911 592 
			  
			 2003 
			 Meddings-Flott Ltd. Germany Ivybridge 0 12 
			 TSI (UK) Inc. USA Bristol 9 7 
			 Kawasaki Precision  Machinery Ltd. Japan Plymouth 16 182 
			 Ohashi Technica Japan Swindon 13 1 
			 Intergraph Consulting USA Swindon 6 0 
			 IXOS/Obtree Germany/Switzerland Bristol 0 21 
			 Cooper Standard USA Plymouth 11 160 
			 Info NXX Inc. USA Plymouth 618 0 
			 Takoa Europe Japan Gloucester 315 60 
			 Daido Japan Illminster 0 170 
			 Climar Australia Gloucester 30 0 
			 Amotech Korea Swindon 20 0 
			 Tata Sons Ltd. India Bristol 10 30 
			 Market Reach USA Plymouth 25 0 
			 Lattice Seminconductors USA Swindon 17 33 
			 Elixent Japan Bristol 20 30 
			 Phihong USA Plymouth 7 0 
			 Lasco Europe Ltd. Jamaica Plymouth 121 0 
			 Textron USA Poole 0 15 
			 Shintoa Corp Japan Bristol 4 0 
			 Total: 20   1,242 721 
			  
			 2004 
			 Schlumberger France/USA Gloucester 100 0 
			 BAE Systems USA Plymouth 0 340 
			 Curtiss-Wright USA Dorset 43 59 
			 Northrop Grumman USA Bristol 2 0 
			 West Pharmaceuticals USA St. Austall 1 4 
			 Basco Singapore Dorset 10 150 
			 IP Wireless USA Swindon 50 100 
			 Stoneridge Pollak Ltd. USA Gloucester 120 320 
			 Endemol Holland Bristol 300 0 
			 Honda Express Japan Swindon 50 450 
			 Amcor Australia Stoke Gifford 250 0 
			 Pics Telecom USA Bath 20 0 
			 Lililink Metal Taiwan Bristol 12 0 
			 Air Bearings Ltd. Japan Bournemouth 87 80 
			 Total: 14   1,045 1,503 
			  
			 2005 
			 Agusta Westland UK Ltd. Italy Yeovil 0 0 
			 IDX USA Bristol 30 0 
			 Actis Insulation Ltd. France Chippenham 12 2 
			 Honda Japan Swindon 0 0 
			 Blaze UK China Taunton 5 0 
			 Roland DG Japan Bristol 45 0 
			 Pulsic Ltd. USA Bristol 15 25 
			 Condor Power Supplies USA South Molton 10 0 
			 TDK (LAMBDA) Japan Ilfracombe 0 270 
			 Takao Europe Manufacturing Ltd. Japan Gloucester 1 0 
			 Toshiba TV Japan Plymouth 0 271 
			 DbsXmedia USA Plymouth 20 0 
			 Patheon Canada Swindon 70 550 
			 NPIL India Bristol 3 0 
			 Daido Metal Japan Somerset 10 0 
			 Warwick Fabrics Australia Gloucester 4 15 
			 Carbon Sim Australia Chippenham 5 0 
			 Airbus France Bristol 191 300 
			 Sogeclair France Bristol 11 0 
			 Conf ICT Company USA Bristol 20 0 
			 Conf ICT Company USA Bath 20 0 
			 Conf Printing Company France Chippenham 0 230 
			 Jingu Electric Appliances China Bristol 15 0 
			 INCAT Japan Bristol 25 0 
			 Royal Canin France Castle Cary 45 45 
			 Total: 25   557 1,708 
		
	
	
		Summary 19992005
		
			  Total successes 
		
		
			 Number of investments 157 
			 Jobs created 10,637 
			 Jobs safeguarded 6,349 
		
	
	Notes:
	1. The investments listed are ones where SWRDA was involved.
	2. Numbers were correct at the time the investment was made.
	3. Jobs created is a predictive figure ie at the time of the investment the amount of jobs the company believed it would create.
	4. Some companies appear more than once as SWRDA has subsequently been involved in retaining or expanding the investing company.

South West Regional Development Agency

Ian Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the consultants employed by the South West Regional Development Agency in each of the last five years; and how much was paid to each.

Alun Michael: I am advised by the South West of England Regional Development Agency that it is not possible to provide this information as the Agency does not have a single accounting code within its budgets to which consultancy costs are charged. Consultancy costs are charged and coded against individual projects and Agency activities.

South West Regional Development Agency

Ian Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many complaints have been received from companies by the South West Regional Development Agency in the last five years; and what action was taken in each case.

Alun Michael: I am told by the South West of England Regional Development Agency that it has handled two formal complaints from companies, (steps 24 as outlined in the agency's complaints procedure). One case is currently being considered by the Parliamentary Ombudsman. The other case, was investigated by an officer at the agency, who provided answers and information, as far as it was available, to the company.

South West Regional Development Agency

Ian Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many flagship sites the South West Regional Development Agency controls; and what estimate he has made of the capital cost of each.

Alun Michael: I am informed by the South West of England Regional Development Agency that it owns a number of major sites in the region including:
	
		
			  Project approval value 000 
		
		
			 Temple Quay, Bristol 20,383 
			 Tolvaddon, Cornwall 4,418 
			 SPark, (Bristol Science Park) 30,300 
			 Dursley (Lister Petter site) 19,100 
			 Gloucester Docks 17,697 
			 Plymouth International Business Park 11,418 
			 Osprey Quay, Portland 18,150 
			 Former RAF Locking, Weston-super-Mare 7,500 
			 Bristol Arena 9,150 
			 Morlands 15,615 
			 Royal William Yard 41,477 
		
	
	Annexe B
	Enterprise Grant Scheme:
	Enterprise Grant Scheme began on 1 January 2000.as a simplified discretionary scheme for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME's) in the Assisted Areas (Tier 1 and Tier 2) and in specified non-Assisted Areas (Tier 3). Those three tiers were referred to collectively as Enterprise Grant Areas.
	The EGS grant closed for new applications on 31 March 2004 and was replaced by the Selective Finance for Investment in England (SFIE) grant on 1 April 2004. Responsibility of the EGS grant was transferred from Government Office of the South West to the South West RDA on 1 April 2004.
	Regional Selective Assistance (Rsa):
	RSA began in July 2000. A discretionary grant which providing assistance towards projects with fixed capital expenditure over 500,000 and created and safeguarded employment in the Assisted Areas (Tier 1 and Tier 2).
	The RSA grant closed for new applications on 31 March 2004 and was replaced by the Selective Finance for Investment in England (SFIE) grant on 1 April 2004. Responsibility of the RSA grant was transferred from Government Office of the South West to the South West RDA on 1 April 2002.
	Selective Finance For Investment In England (Sfie):
	SFIE began on 1 April 2004. Introduced to replace Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) and Enterprise Grant Scheme (EGS) in the Assisted Areas and offers a more limited form of assistance in Tier 3 areas, similar to that available under EGS. Under SFIE there is a minimum threshold for grant applications of 10,000. The grant maximum in Tier 3 areas is 100,000. Applications of less than 100,000, in both the Assisted Areas and Tier 3, will not require job creation or safeguarding to be eligible for support.
	The list following is for all applications (82 in total) by county and company name where claims have been paid by the South West RDA. All the companies listed are UK based, with some being owned by foreign companies.
	
		
			 County/company Foreign or UK owned Grant scheme 
		
		
			 Cornwall   
			 Abrasive Technology Ltd UK RSA 
			 Advanced Panel Systems (UK) Ltd UK RSA 
			 Armada Tube and Steel Ltd UK RSA 
			 Art Metal Industries UK SFI 
			 Austin Hinkley Furniture Ltd UK RSA 
			 Brewers Business Solutions Ltd UK RSA 
			 Castle Granite Ltd UK EGS 
			 Channel Offices Supplies UK EGS 
			 Crepe Cuisine UK SFI 
			 DP Engineering UK SFI 
			 DS Smith UK Ltd UK RSA 
			 Duchy Plastics UK RSA 
			 Fibrefusion Ltd UK EGS 
			 Foodsmiths/Surfis Ltd UK RSA 
			 Fumiss Ltd UK SFI 
			 Hydra (SW) Ltd UK RSA 
			 Infoteam International  Services Ltd UK SFI 
			 John Richards Group UK SFI 
			 Kernick Metal Finishers Ltd UK EGS 
			 Kingfisher Boats Ltd UK RSA 
			 Manuplas Ltd UK SFI 
			 Mojo Maritime Ltd UK SFI 
			 MPG Books Ltd UK RSA 
			 Ocean Engineering Ltd UK SFI 
			 Pall Europe Ltd Foreign RSA 
			 Pall Newquay Ltd Foreign RSA 
			 Panographs Worldwide UK SFI 
			 Partech (Electronics) Ltd UK EGS 
			 Pendennis Shipyard Ltd UK RSA 
			 Phone Service Europe Ltd UK RSA 
			 Precision Audio Products Foreign RSA 
			 RD Industries Ltd UK RSA 
			 Richard Winfrey UK SFI 
			 Rowe the Printers Ltd UK RSA 
			 Samworth Brothers Ltd UK RSA 
			 Seacore Ltd UK RSA 
			 Sharps Brewery UK RSA 
			 Silvertree Engineering Ltd UK EGS 
			 Stralfors Plc Foreign RSA 
			 Tecker Ltd UK RSA 
			 Topfoto Services Ltd UK SFI 
			 Tripos Receptor Research Ltd Foreign RSA 
			 Worlds Apart Ltd UK RSA 
			
			 Devon   
			 Adaptacar UK EGS 
			 BAE Systems Ltd UK RSA 
			 Beach Solutions Ltd UK RSA 
			 Becton Dickinson Ltd UK RSA 
			 Bio Vault Ltd UK EGS 
			 Clearlab Ltd UK RSA 
			 Coutant-Lambda Ltd UK RSA 
			 Croydex Group Plc Foreign RSA 
			 Direct Wines Ltd UK RSA 
			 Fine Tubes Ltd UK RSA 
			 Forest Products UK EGS 
			 Frontline Image Ltd UK RSA 
			 Hilliers Ltd UK RSA 
			 Kawasaki Ltd Foreign RSA 
			 Langage Dairy Farm UK RSA 
			 Lasco Europe Ltd Foreign RSA 
			 Mayflower College of English UK RSA 
			 Mike Latham Joinery UK EGS 
			 Morris Engineering Ltd UK RSA 
			 P.A.R.C. Ltd UK EGS 
			 Princess Yachts International  Plc UK RSA 
			 SM Group (Europe) Ltd UK EGS 
			 Small and Tidmas Ltd UK RSA 
			 The Blacksmith Collection Ltd UK EGS 
			 The Number UK Ltd Foreign RSA 
			 Tony Hole Marine Ltd UK SFI 
			 Two Four Productions Ltd UK SFI 
			 Valeport Ltd UK EGS 
			 Vanier Ltd UK EGS 
			 Wrafton Laboratories Ltd UK RSA 
			 X-FAB UK Ltd Foreign RSA 
			 Yennadon Quarry UK SFI 
			 Luhrs Marine Ltd UK RSA 
			 Premier Structures UK RSA 
			 Tecan Components Ltd UK RSA 
			 Ultra Electronics Ltd UK RSA 
			
			 Gloucestershire   
			 Dockright Ltd UK SFI 
			 Woodgate Sawmills Ltd UK EGS

South West Regional Development Agency

Ian Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the cost of capital assistance provided by the South West Regional Development Agency has been in the last five years, broken down by county.

Alun Michael: I am told by the South West of England Regional Development Agency that it does not hold information on capital assistance provided by county. As a strategic across county, or unitary, boundaries. The Agency's investment figures in support of projects and activities across the south west for the last five years are as follows:
	
		
			  000 
		
		
			 200405 77,624 
			 200304 72,106 
			 200203 78,150 
			 200102 64,070 
			 200001 62,652

South West Regional Development Agency

Ian Liddell-Grainger: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many new jobs have been created by the work of the South West Regional Development Agency in the last five years, broken down by county.

Alun Michael: I am told by the South West of England Regional Development Agency that it does not hold information on jobs created by county. As a strategic organisation many of the activities in which it is involved operate at regional level, or across county, or unitary, boundaries. The Agency reports on a range of outputs that are directly attributable to its investment in support of projects and activities across the region, one of which is jobs created or safeguarded. The figures for jobs created/safeguarded for the last five years are as follows:
	
		
			  Number of jobs created/safeguarded 
		
		
			 200405 6,060 
			 200304 6,024 
			 200203 6,508 
			 200102 (55)10,415 
			 200001 (55)10,876 
		
	
	(55) In 2002 the Agency changed its method of collecting output information from approval stage to using monitoring returns

Statutory Adoption Pay

Anthony Steen: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will increase statutory adoption pay to the same level as statutory maternity pay.

Gerry Sutcliffe: Since its introduction in April 2003, Statutory Adoption Pay has been paid at the same standard rate and for the same length of time as Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and Maternity Allowance (MA). We intend to continue the existing approach as we increase both the standard rate and the payment period. The higher rate of SMP available to women for the first six weeks after the birth recognises the period of compulsory maternity leave, which is for health and safety reasons. The Work and Families Bill will enable us to meet our commitment to extend the payment period of SMP, MA and SAP from the current 26 weeks to 39 weeks from April 2007, with an ambition to extend to one year by the end of this Parliament.

Sunday Trading

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether the cost-benefit analysis of the impact of de-regulation of Sunday trading will assess (a) ancillary costs to the public sector of an extension of Sunday trading hours, (b) additional costs to non-retail businesses and (c) the impact on family and community life of changes to the Sunday working hours of retail staff.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The cost-benefit analysis will take into consideration the wider impacts of increasing Sunday trading hours where these can reasonably be assessed. We recognise that an economic cost benefit analysis will not be able to fully capture any social impact of further liberalisation, which is why we welcome views on all aspects of Sunday trading.

Sunday Trading

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the (a) reports and (b) academic papers being considered by the consultants preparing the economic cost-benefit analysis of extended Sunday trading hours.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The cost-benefit analysis report, which will be published in spring 2006, will include a bibliography.

Sunday Trading

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many companies that operate stores with a floor area of (a) less than and (b) more than 3,000 square feet have been invited to make submissions to the consultation on extended Sunday trading hours.

Gerry Sutcliffe: All stakeholders, including retailers of all sizes, are welcome to provide comments to the Government on any aspect of further liberalisation of the Sunday trading laws.

Sunday Trading

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what reasons submissions to the consultation on extended Sunday trading hours were not invited from (a) police authorities and (b) local authorities; and if he will make a statement.

Gerry Sutcliffe: All stakeholders are welcome to provide comments to the Government on any aspect of further liberalisation of the Sunday trading laws.

Sunday Trading

Brian Jenkins: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether the cost-benefit analysis of extended Sunday trading hours will take into consideration the provisions of the Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004 when Christmas Day falls on a Sunday.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004 prohibits large shops from opening on Christmas Day, no matter on which day of the week it falls. The Government do not intend to revisit this issue.

Supermarkets

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he will next meet officials of the Office of Fair Trading to discuss the operation of the Supermarket Code of Practice; and if he will make a statement.

Gerry Sutcliffe: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and Ministers meet with the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) on a regular basis to discuss topics of mutual interest.
	The OFT has referred the grocery market to the Competition Commission.

Supermarkets

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps the Office of Fair Trading takes to ensure local suppliers are able to provide evidence on possible breaches of the Supermarket Code of Practice without affecting their future contracts with the supermarket.

Gerry Sutcliffe: Competition in the supermarket and grocery sectors is a matter for the independent competition authorities, in this instance the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). In August 2005 the OFT announced its intention to monitor the code more proactively, and as part of this it will:
	Check regularly with supermarkets their procedures for complying with the code and how often and why their dispute procedures have been used; eg it will want to understand what kinds of dispute arise and how they are dealt with;
	follow up complaints made to it under the code where those are put to the supermarket concerned to find out what the outcome is and what happens to that supplier post-complaint; and
	take appropriate enforcement action against code breaches.
	The OFT strongly recommends that suppliers seek written terms with the supermarkets, not least because this will help suppliers complain and help supermarkets demonstrate compliance more easily. The OFT would encourage suppliers who believe they have evidence of a breach of the code to bring their concerns in the first instance to the supermarkets in question, either individually or with the backing of their trade association.

Supermarkets

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will ask the Office of Fair Trading to include small stores owned by the supermarkets in their assessment of the local market share held by the supermarket chains.

Gerry Sutcliffe: The Office of Fair Trading is currently consulting on its decision to refer the grocery market to the Competition Commission. The market features included in the proposed reference include developments in the convenience sector including the entry of the supermarkets into this area of grocery retailing.

Working Time Directive

Charles Hendry: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment has been made of the effects of the European working time directive on the permitted working hours of wardens in sheltered/retirement housing schemes.

Gerry Sutcliffe: No assessment has been made on the effects of the working time directive specifically on the working hours of wardens who work in sheltered/retirement housing schemes.

CABINET OFFICE

Departmental Properties

Norman Baker: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what properties were held by his Department on 1 May 1997; and what the (a) square footage of each property and (b) purpose to which each property was being put was in each case.

Jim Murphy: The properties held by the Cabinet Office on 1 May 1997 are shown in the table.
	
		
			 Property Use Net internal area (m(57)) 
		
		
			 1012 Downing street Office/residential accommodation 3,388 
			 70 Whitehall Office 7,895 
			 36 Whitehall Office 2,031 
			 Admiralty House Ministerial residences for non-Cabinet Office Ministers  including conference facilities 1,367 
			 1315 Great Scotland Yard Civil Service Club 988 
			 1 Chadwick street Civil Service Sports Council Recreation Centre 1,466 
			 53 Parliament street Office 892 
			 Hepburn House Office 1,578 
			 11 Belgrave road Office 224 
			 Government Offices Great George street Office 11,388 
			 Ashley House Office 1,459 
			 Queen Anne's Chambers Office 2,186 
			 Britannia House Vacant office space and depot (former HMSO property) pending  disposal 2,590 
			 Dacre House No Cabinet Office occupantsspace let out to other tenants  pending disposal 1,430 
			 Alencon Link, Basingstoke No Cabinet Office occupantssome vacant office space with  other office space let out to other tenants pending disposal 9,685 
			 St. Clements House, Norwich Office 284 
			 Sovereign House (Norwich-vacant) Vacant office space (former HMSO property) pending disposal 12,820

Departmental Properties

Norman Baker: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what income was received in respect of each property held by the Cabinet Office in the last year for which figures are available.

Jim Murphy: The income received in respect of properties held by the Cabinet Office in the last full financial year (200405) for which figures are available is 4,614,480. The figure is based on charges to other Government Departments and private companies occupying space and making use of meeting rooms and training suites within Cabinet Office freehold and leased properties.

Departmental Properties

Norman Baker: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how much has been spent by the Cabinet Office on the acquisition of properties since 1 May 1997; what the (a) address, (b) cost and (c) date of acquisition was of each such property; how much has been realised by the Cabinet Office from the disposal of properties since 1 May 1997; and what the (i) address, (ii) sale price and (iii) date of sale was of each.

Jim Murphy: A list of the properties acquired by the Cabinet Office between 1997 and 2006 is shown as follows.
	Property
	Admiralty Arch
	2226 Whitehall
	35 Great Smith street
	Stockley House (3 floors)
	67 Tufton street
	10 Great George street (four floors)
	9 Whitehall
	2 Little Smith street
	7 St. James's Square
	1 Horse Guards road (part of one floor)
	Further information on the acquisition of properties since 1 May 1997 is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
	Information on how much revenue has been generated from the disposal of property since 1 May 1997 is shown in the table.
	
		
			 Property Address Date of sale Sale price () 
		
		
			 Alencon Link Basingstoke, Hampshire April 1999 1.3 million 
			 Civil Service Sports Council 1 Chadwick St. London SW1 April 2003 4.1 million 
			 Hill House Picton Terrace, Carmarthen, Wales SA31 3BS July 2003 100,000

Departmental Properties

Norman Baker: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on what date an energy audit was last carried out in respect of each property held by the Cabinet Office.

Jim Murphy: The Cabinet Office is currently working with the Carbon Trust to improve its energy management practices and identify likely areas for potential energy savings. As part of this, in August 2005 the Carbon Trust undertook an initial energy audit across a number of key buildings operated by the Cabinet Office. The Cabinet Office will shortly be signing up to the Carbon Trust's Carbon Management Programme (CTCMP) where a further and more in-depth energy audit will be undertaken. Both audits will assist the Cabinet Office in establishing a credible energy efficiency strategy.

Departmental Staff

Elfyn Llwyd: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many jobs in his Department have been relocated to Wales since 2001.

Jim Murphy: The Cabinet Office has not relocated any posts to Wales.

Qinetiq (Contracts)

Ben Wallace: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how many contracts were awarded to Qinetiq by his Department (a) with and (b) without competitive tendering in (i) 200203, (ii) 200304 and (iii) 200405; and what the value of the contract was in each case.

Jim Murphy: The Cabinet Office's expenditure with Qinetiq for the years requested is shown in the table.
	
		Cabinet Office expenditure with Qinetiq
		
			  Expenditure () 
		
		
			 200203 117,944.00 
			 200304 119,109.00 
			 200405 85,588.00 
		
	
	The information requested relating to contracts cannot be obtained in the format required without incurring disproportionate costs.

HEALTH

Cancer

James Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what information she collects on survival rates for bowel cancer in other developed countries.

Rosie Winterton: The Department does not collect information on survival rates for bowel cancer in other developed countries.
	Comparable information on survival rates for bowel cancer survival in countries within the European Union is provided by the EUROCARE study. This covers parts of the United Kingdom and Europe. The most recently published results from this study provide information on survival up to five years after diagnosis for patients diagnosed with cancer of the colon and rectum during 199094 and followed up to the end of 1999.
	These results were published in: Berrino, F., Capocaccia, R., Coleman M.P., et al. (editors) (2003). Survival of Cancer Patients in Europe: the EUROCARE-3 Study. Annals of Oncology. Volume 14, Supplement 5. And is available online at: www.annonc.oupjournals.org/content/voll4/suppl_5/index.dtl.

Cancer

John Baron: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans she has to strengthen the commissioning role of cancer networks.

Rosie Winterton: Cancer networks have a key role, working together with primary care trusts (PCTs), to plan and commission cancer services in line with national guidance. Many cancer services, such as complex cancer surgery and radiotherapy, are best provided for populations larger than that of an individual PCT and, for these services, it is important that PCTs commission services jointly. Strategic health authorities are responsible for ensuring that effective joint commissioning arrangements are in place.
	A national programme of peer review of cancer networks is currently under way. This process seeks to improve the quality of cancer services across the whole system of patient care. This includes consideration of commissioning.

Carers

Peter Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps she is taking to help carers; and if she will make a statement.

Liam Byrne: The Government formally recognised the contribution and concerns of carers through the cross-government national carers' strategy published in 1999. Since then we have supported carers in a number of ways, including the introduction of the carers grant in 1999 to support councils in providing breaks and services for carers. By 2008, we will have invested over 1 billion in services and support for carers. We have also supported legislation that gives carers rights to an assessment of their own needs.
	In addition, in our recent White Paper, we have proposed a new deal for carers to improve support for them through a range of measures.
	We will update and extend the Prime Minister's 1999 strategy for carers and encourage councils and primary care trusts to nominate leads for carers' services.
	We will establish a helpline to offer advice to carers.
	In each council's area, we will ensure that a short-term, home-based respite support to carers in crisis or emergency situations is established.
	We will allocate specific funding for the creation of an expert carers programme which will provide training for carers to develop the skills they need to take greater control over their own health and the health of those in their care.

Cheshire and Merseyside Strategic Health Authority

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many successful clinical negligence claims were made against hospitals trusts in the Cheshire and Merseyside strategic health authority in 200405.

Liam Byrne: I refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave on 17 November 2005, Official Report, column 1449W.

Cheshire and Merseyside Strategic Health Authority

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the financial position is of each hospital in the Cheshire and Merseyside Strategic Health Authority.

Liam Byrne: The latest forecast outturn position for 200506, as submitted by national health service organisations (strategic health authorities, primary care trusts and NHS trusts) at the mid-year point, month six, is available in the Library and is also available on the Department's website at:
	www.dh.gov.uk/PublicationsAndStatistics/FreedomOfInformation/ClassesOfInformation/fs/en.

Community Hospitals

Graham Stuart: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many intermediate beds there have been in community hospitals in England in each of the last 10 years; and if she will make a statement.

Liam Byrne: The number of intermediate care beds has risen from 4,242 in 19992000 to 8,928 in 200405 and the number of places in non-residential intermediate care schemes has risen from 7,149 to 20,558 over the same period. The information collected on the number of intermediate care beds is not available by type of hospital. Information on intermediate care beds has only been collected since 19992000.

Complaints and Advocacy Service

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what arrangements her Department has made to ensure that (a) patients in West Lancashire will have access to an independent complaints and advocacy service when the contract with the Citizens Advice Bureau finishes and (b) that there will be a smooth transfer from the current provider to the new provision.

Liam Byrne: I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave on Wednesday 22 February 2006, Official Report, column 460W.

Critical Care Costs

Ian Gibson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the average NHS expenditure per patient per day in critical care was in each of the last three years.

Jane Kennedy: The information requested is not centrally available.

Dentistry

John Bercow: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps are being taken by her Department to improve access to free dental care for children.

Rosie Winterton: Dentists working in the salaried primary care dental services examine schoolchildren at least three times in their school career. They also contribute to regular surveys, which have shown that the oral health of children is improving.
	Where dentists advise that treatment is necessary, children under 16 and young people aged 16, 17 and 18 who are in full-time education are exempt from charges for NHS dental treatment.
	Recent and ongoing action to improve access to NHS dentistry, including the recruitment of the equivalent of over 1,450 additional dentists, the establishment of a new university dental school and the introduction of local commissioning responsibilities for primary care trusts, will benefit both children and their families.

Departmental Energy Costs

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much was spent by her Department on (a) gas and (b) electricity in 200405.

Liam Byrne: The total amount spent on gas for the Department's London headquarter buildings in the financial year 200405 was 114,256.
	The amount spent on electricity was 723,840.
	The amount spent on gas for the Department's agency, the NHS Purchasing and Supplies Agency, in financial year 200405 was 6,938. The cost of electricity was 39,404.

Departmental Estate

Nick Hurd: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many properties for which her Department is paying rent are empty in (a) the constituency of Ruislip-Northwood, (b) the London borough of Hillingdon, (c) London and (d) England.

Liam Byrne: There are no empty properties in either the constituency of Ruislip-Northwood or the London borough of Hillingdon upon which the Department is paying rent. There are two properties in London and a further nine properties in England that are empty and upon which the Department is paying rent. Active attempts are being made to dispose of these interests.

Departmental Information Leaflets

Steve Webb: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many information leaflets produced by her Department are published on the internet.

Liam Byrne: All departmental publications and leaflets are published on the internet, either on the Department's website, www.dh.gov.uk, or other Department-owned sites, for example, www.immunisation.org.uk or partner websites.
	In 2005, 633 publications were published on the Department's website, including information leaflets, command papers, guidance documentation and national health service staff bulletins.
	There is currently no mechanism for identifying which of these are specifically information leaflets and attempting to do so would incur disproportionate cost.

Departmental Information Leaflets

Steve Webb: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what methods are used by her Department to promote information it makes available on the internet; and how much this cost in each of the last three years.

Liam Byrne: The internet is one of a number of media we use to promote information to the general public, national health service and social care staff, the media and key stakeholders. The Department does not promote information vehicles themselves; instead, they are used as channels to reach key audiences. The Department routinely features website addresses in advertising and leaflets, but cannot attribute any specific costs to this.

Departmental Performance Support Team

Andrew Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the Answer of 8 February 2006, Official Report, column 1308W, on the Departmental Performance Support Team, what expenditure on the performance support team has been in each year since it was established.

Jane Kennedy: The performance support team (PST) was established on 1 April 2005, it is a national health service team hosted by Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Strategic Health Authority and as such, the Department does not directly incur the costs of the team. I am informed that the expenditure of the team is estimated to be 2.1 million for the year 200506.

Departmental Staff

Bob Spink: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many staff in her Department are paid on a performance-related basis.

Liam Byrne: holding answer 16 February 2006
	All staff employed by the Department are paid on a performance-related basis.

Departmental Staff

Theresa Villiers: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether (a) her Department and (b) her Department's associated public bodies have (i) delayed and (ii) withheld payment of (A) pay as you earn and (B) national insurance contributions owed in relation to their employees since 1997.

Liam Byrne: The Department and its agencies have a semi-managed payroll contract with LogicaCMG as part of a consortium arrangement, with a large number of Government Departments being members. Each month, as part of the contractual arrangement all payments for tax and national insurance are paid over to the relevant third parties by the required deadline. There are no exceptions where we withhold tax and/or national insurance payments collected from employees.

Departmental Staff

Michael Penning: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether any (a) employee of her Department, (b) person engaged by her Department as a consultant and (c) paid adviser to her Department is a member of the House of Lords; and if she will make a statement.

Liam Byrne: Following a search of the human resources database, it would appear that no employee, consultant or paid adviser to the Department is a Member of the House of Lords. My noble Friend, Lord Warner is Minister of State.

Early Retirement

David Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many of her Department's employees have taken early retirement due to ill health in each of the past five years for which figures are available.

Liam Byrne: The number of departmental employees who have taken early retirement due to ill health is shown in the table.
	
		
			  Number of employees who took early retirement 
		
		
			 2001 Less than or equal to 5 
			 2002 6 
			 2003 5 
			 2004 8 
			 2005 Less than or equal to 5

Efficiency

Brooks Newmark: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  when her Department will publish (a) productivity estimates for the NHS as referred to in Section 3.4.2 of the departmental Efficiency Technical Note dated December 2005 and (b) a detailed methodology for assessing productivity;
	(2)  what progress has been made in developing the cost efficiency measures referred to in Section 3.4.2 of the departmental Efficiency Technical Note dated December 2005.

Jane Kennedy: An estimate for national health service cost efficiency was published in the Department's 2005 annual report which showed that in 200304 value for money through cost efficiency increased by 2.1 per cent.
	On 7 December 2005, the Department published Healthcare Output and Productivity: Accounting for Quality Change, which outlines a detailed methodology for assessing NHS productivity.

Efficiency

Brooks Newmark: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what existing processes and measures are used to assess service levels as referred to in Section 3.5 of the departmental Efficiency Technical Note dated December 2005; and if she will make a statement.

Jane Kennedy: Subsequent chapters in the Efficiency Technical Note provide further detail on processes and measures used to assess service levels and quality for projects within each workstream.
	The Department is continuing to develop these processes in conjunction with the Office of Government Commerce and HM Treasury and will continue to update the technical note as appropriate.

Health Service Management

Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much will be paid into the pension funds of chief executives who are taking redundancy in (a) health authorities, (b) acute trusts and (c) primary care trusts in the north west region.

Liam Byrne: holding answer 10 March 2006
	The information requested is not held centrally.

Health White Paper

Andrew Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what evidence of (a) cost and (b) clinical effectiveness was used to support the proposals for an NHS Life Check, as described in the White Paper, Our Health, Our Care, Our Say, Cm 6737; at what ages she plans for a NHS Life Check to be offered; in which pilot areas the NHS Life Check will initially be introduced; and what resources she plans to commit from central budgets to support the implementation of the NHS Life Check.

Caroline Flint: The proposals for NHS Life Check are based on evidence for the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions set out in the delivery plan for the White Paper Choosing Health: Delivering Choosing Health, making healthier choices easier, references pages 12730 (March 2005) and Choosing Activity, a physical activity action plan, references page 4748 (March 2005).
	The Department is developing detailed plans for development and implementation of the NHS Life Check in the first year of life (self-assessment by parents included as an integral part of considering the health of their children) at age 12 to 13 years and around the age of 50 years for use in areas with the worst health and deprivation as defined by the spearhead group of local authorities and primary care trusts (Tackling Health Inequalities: the spearhead group of Local Authorities and Primary Care Trusts) (November 2004) with a view to wider roll-out thereafter. Funding for development of the NHS Life Check will be allocated in due course as part of the normal process for deciding on central programme funding.

Herceptin

Harry Cohen: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate she has made of the annual cost of providing Herceptin on the NHS to women whose consultants recommend it; and if she will make a statement.

Rosie Winterton: The cost of treating a patient with the drug Herceptin is expected to be in the region of 20,000 a year.
	It is estimated that it would cost the NHS around 100 million a year if everyone who could benefit from it received a one-year course of Herceptin.

Hospices (Peterborough)

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what public funding has been provided to hospices in the Greater Peterborough area in each year since 1997;
	(2)  what the total funding for children's hospices and children's palliative care was in (a) the Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire strategic health authority area and (b) the Greater Peterborough area in each of the last five years.

Rosie Winterton: The information requested is not collected centrally. Primary care trusts (PCTs) are responsible for ensuring that services are provided to meet the needs of their local populations, including palliative care and hospice services. In the current financial year, PCTs in the Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire strategic health authority area have received revenue allocations totalling 2.2 billion. By 200708, this will have increased to 2.9 billion.

Hospital Closures

Daniel Kawczynski: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many hospitals in England closed in (a) 2001, (b) 2003 and (c) 2005.

Jane Kennedy: Information on the number of hospital site closures is not held centrally.

Hospital Treatment

Claire Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many patients who attended hospitals in the Liverpool area in 200405 visited the hospital for treatment more than three times in that year.

Liam Byrne: In 200405, 7,086 patients who attended hospitals in the Liverpool area had more than three finished admission episodes.

Influenza

Andrew Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether she has taken a decision on stockpiling (a) gloves and (b) face masks for use in the event of an influenza pandemic.

Rosie Winterton: We have recommended the use of face masks for healthcare professionals who would be working closely with infected patients. Stock levels of masks and protective clothing, such as gloves, normally available in the NHS and its supply chain are also being reviewed. Supplies of essential material will be increased if mathematical modelling indicates that this is necessary.
	The Chief Medical Officer commissioned the Health Protection Agency to review the scientific evidence for the use of facemasks by the public during an influenza pandemic. This review did not find any clear evidence that such a policy would be of benefit. However, as with all policies relating to pandemic influenza, the evidence is regularly reviewed.

Local Authority Social Services Departments

Mark Hunter: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what discussions she has had in the past six months with the Deputy Prime Minister on (a) the financial position of local authority social services departments and (b) their relationship with NHS organisations.

Liam Byrne: In preparing for the local government finance settlement in December 2005, the Department worked closely with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) to agree the final level of adults' social care grants that will be allocated to councils during 200608. Prior to this settlement, the two departments collaborated to develop new allocation formulae for both the younger adults' and older people's client groups. These will be used by ODPM to allocate the overall formula grant, and by the Department to allocate the majority of its adults' social care grants.
	The Department sets the overall policy for adults' social care. Councils have the flexibility to manage their resources according to local priorities. This will include local decisions about joint working with health partners. The announcement of a two-year financial settlement for local government, with a commitment to allocate resources on a three-year basis from 200809, will align local authority and national health service budget cycles.
	The two departments will work to establish priorities for improved ways of working at the health and social care interface as part of the preparations for the 2007 comprehensive spending review.

Media Training

David Laws: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much has been spent by her Department on media training in each year since 199798.

Liam Byrne: To date in the 200506 financial year, the Department's communications directorate has spent 14,458.96 on media training.
	Training is provided to senior officials on an ad hoc basis. No central records of media training has been kept for this or previous years.

Mental Health

David Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what her policy is on the future role for the independent sector in the provision of mental health facilities.

Rosie Winterton: The NHS receives vital support from the independent sector in delivering mental health services, improving access to these and in reducing waiting times, for example, in providing medium secure facilities and in specialist eating disorder services, and we have no plans to change this.
	The independent sector, through the private finance initiative scheme (PFI), is helping to deliver the biggest hospital building programme, including mental health facilities, in the history of the NHS, replacing old and outmoded buildings with ones fit for the 21st Century. New or improved mental health facilities are among the 140 new hospital schemes worth 19.1 billion, which are in progress and are counting towards the NHS Plan target of having 100 new hospital schemes open by 2010.
	The responsibility for planning and developing NHS health services which meet the needs of local communities, including mental health services, rests with primary care trusts and their strategic health authorities. We will continue to support the commissioning of independent sector services by the NHS where this delivers clear benefits for NHS patients and where it represents value for money for the taxpayer.

MHRA

Ian Lucas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment she has made of the performance of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency.

Jane Kennedy: I am aware that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency's (MHRA) performance regarding licence and variation approval times during the last nine months has been affected by a combination of adverse factors including increases in workload, difficulties in recruiting professional assessment staff, especially medically-qualified staff, and transitional implementation problems during the introduction of a new information management system. Though statistics for the full year 200506 are not yet available, it is likely that some of the target assessment times given in the published performance targets will not be met.
	The MHRA is taking a number of steps to improve service levels. These include organisational restructuring, additional recruitment, re-training of staff, voluntary schemes for extended working hours, and information system performance enhancements. The MHRA is working closely with the industry to improve its performance and I will be asking for regular updates on progress.

Mr. John Jesky

Michael Meacher: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will investigate (a) the appointment by the north-west strategic health authority (SHA) of Mr. John Jesky as interim chairman of the Pennine Acute Trust and (b) the role in this appointment of the chairman of the SHA.

Liam Byrne: holding answer 9 March 2006
	Since 1 April 2001, the Secretary of State has delegated appointments functions relating to the appointment of chairs and non-executive members of national health service trusts, health authorities and primary care trusts to the NHS Appointments Commission. All non-executive appointments to the boards of these bodies are now made by the commission rather than by the Secretary of State.
	John Jesky was appointed by the NHS Appointments Commission on 1 March 2006 as chair of the Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust for a period of up to six months, pending the successful completion of the current open competition to recruit a substantive chair. The appointment was made following consultation between the Chairman of the Greater Manchester strategic health authority, and the NHS Appointments Commission's regional commissioner for the north west.
	This kind of short-term appointment is common practice following the resignation of a chair, to allow time for an open competition and a substantive appointment to be made.

MRSA

John MacDougall: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many MRSA cases there were in each hospital in Cumbria in each of the last three years.

Liam Byrne: holding answer 10 March 2006
	The information is not available by individual hospital in Cumbria. However, the number of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) cases by national health service trust is shown in the table.
	
		Annual data for 2001 to 2005
		
			  April 2002 to March 2003 April 2003 to March 2004 
			 Trust name Number of MRSA bacteraemia reports MRSA rate (per 1000 bed-days)(56) Number of MRSA bacteraemia reports MRSA rate (per 1000 bed-days)(56) 
		
		
			 Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS  Foundation Trust 58 0.17 56 0.15 
			 Morecambe Bay Hospitals NHS Trust 24 0.08 30 0.1 
			 North Cumbria Acute Hospitals NHS Trust 27 0.12 22 0.09 
		
	
	
		
			  April 2004 to March 2005(56) April 2005 to September 2005 
			 Trust name Number of MRSA bacteraemia reports MRSA rate (per 1000 bed-days)(56) Number of MRSA bacteraemia reports MRSA rate (per 1000 bed-days)(56) 
		
		
			 Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust 74 0.2 20 0.12 
			 Morecambe Bay Hospitals NHS Trust 30 0.1 18 0.12 
			 North Cumbria Acute Hospitals NHS Trust 24 0.1 12 0.11 
		
	
	(56) 200405 rate per 1,000 bed days is provisional as final 200405 activity data are not yet available.
	Source:
	Department of Health Mandatory MRSA Bacteraemia Surveillance SchemeMRSA bacteraemia by NHS Trust

NHS Finance

Andrew Lansley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the percentage increase in the NHS budget has been in each year since 1997, (a) in cash terms, (b) taking into account UK inflation, (c) taking into account public sector inflation and (d) taking into account NHS inflation.

Liam Byrne: The table shows net national health service expenditure and percentage increases from 199697 to 200708 in cash terms, adjusted by gross domestic product (GDP) deflator, and by NHS specific inflation.
	An index for public sector inflation is not available.
	
		NHS net expenditure: England, 199697 to 200708
		
			   Net NHS expenditure(57) ( billion) Percentage increase Percentage real terms increase(58) Percentage increase adjusted for NHS specific inflation(59) 
		
		
			 Cash(60)  
			 199697 Out-turn 32.997
			 199798 Out-turn 34.664 5.1 2.0 2.9 
			 199899 Out-turn 36.608 5.6 2.9 1.6 
			 19992000 Out-turn 39.881 8.9 6.8 4.1 
			 Resource budgeting stage 1(61)   
			 19992000 Out-turn 40.201
			 200001 Out-turn 43.932 9.3 7.9 5.0 
			 200102 Out-turn 49.021 11.6 8.9 6.5 
			 200203 Out-turn 54.042 10.2 6.8 6.5 
			   
			 Resource budgeting stage 26, 7   
			 200304 Out-turn(64) 63.001
			 200405 Out-turn 69.706 10.6 8.3  
			 200506 Plan 76.387 9.6 7.0  
			 200607 Plan 84.324 10.4 7.7  
			 200708 Plan 92.643 9.9 7.0  
		
	
	(57) Figures are not consistent over the period to 200708, hence no comparisons should be made across different periods.
	(58) Based on the gross domestic product deflator series as at 23 December 2005.
	(59) NHS inflation index is only available up to 200304.
	(60) Expenditure pre 19992000 is on a cash basis.
	(61) Expenditure figures from 19992000 to 200203 are on a stage 1 resource budgeting basis.
	(62) Expenditure figures from 200304 to 200708 are on a stage 2 resource budgeting basis.
	(63) The resource budgeting stage 2 expenditure figures shown for 200405 to 200708 are consistent with the 2005 departmental report and chief executive's report.
	(64) Estimated.

Organ Donation

Lynne Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to the answer to question 54257, on organ donation, what steps are being taken to improve rates of cadaveric organ donation; and if she will make a statement.

Rosie Winterton: Over 13 million people have registered on the organ donor register (ODR), 22 per cent. of the United Kingdom population. The Department gives around 1 million yearly to NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) to run the ODR and to promote transplantation and also provides Section 64 grants to a number of charities. Specific initiatives to improve cadaveric organ donation rates include funding through NHSBT to support hospital based schemes, high profile media initiatives and partnership working with a range of organisations to increase the number of people registered on the ODR and to encourage donation.

Out-of-hours Provision

Alan Beith: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will list the primary care trusts which received supplementary out-of-hours funding following the introduction of the new GP contract.

Liam Byrne: In 200506, 11.5 million supplementary out-of-hours funding was allocated directly to strategic health authorities (SHAs). 50 per cent. was allocated on a weighted capitation basis to each SHA. The remaining 50 per cent. was allocated to SHAs to support the 50 most rural primary care trusts (PCTs).
	I refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 18 March 2005, Official Report, column 52021W, which shows the 50 most rural PCTs that received supplementary out-of-hours funding following the introduction of the new general practitioner contract on account of their rural character.
	These funds were aggregated to SHA level for them to distribute accordingly.

Over-the-counter Medicines

Ann Widdecombe: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what progress is being made on the Better Regulation of Over-the-Counter Medicines Initiative; and what its terms of reference are.

Jane Kennedy: holding answer 9 March 2006
	The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is committed to developing regulation which is proportionate, accountable, consistent, transparent and targeted and is considering how unnecessary regulatory burdens, primarily in relation to over the counter (OTC) medicines, could be eased.
	To take this important initiative forward, the MHRA is leading the Better Regulation of OTC Medicines Initiative (BROMI)a broad ranging strategy group, which includes representatives from the Proprietary Association of Great Britain, the non-proprietary sector, the National Pharmacy Association, and wider government.
	The group first met in December 2005 at which the terms of reference and a work plan were developed. The terms of reference were finalised by the BROMI group at their meeting on 1 March and these are:
	To assess the regulatory process in relation to the over the counter (OTC) medicines sector to identify areas of overlap and duplication where control could be exercised through different mechanisms;
	To identify areas where a simplified approach to the operation and delivery of the regulation of OTC medicines would benefit all stakeholders;
	To determine what measures need to be in place to enable a proportionate approach to OTC medicines regulation while maintaining safeguards to protect public health;
	To identify and make proposals to facilitate change and tackle barriers to achieving it, and produce an action plan; and
	To agree criteria for a successful outcome and monitor the impact of action.
	The group has met four times and is considering a range of options for easing unnecessary regulatory burdens in relation to OTC medicines and I have asked that BROMI delivers its first proposals to simplify regulatory burdens for OTC medicines in April 2006.

Paediatric Continence Services

Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment she has made of the likely impact of boundary changes to primary care trusts on the availability of integrated paediatric continence services.

Liam Byrne: The national service framework for children, young people and maternity services encourages primary care trusts (PCTs) to work with other statutory and voluntary organisations locally towards establishing integrated paediatric continence services. There is no reason to believe that changes to PCT boundaries will have an adverse effect on the integration of paediatric continence services.

Patient Registration (York/Selby)

Hugh Bayley: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many (a) adult and (b) child patients are registered with a general practice in York and Selby; and how many were registered at each six month interval in the last five years.

Liam Byrne: The information is not available in the format requested. Data on registered general practitioner (GP) patients is collected annually. The table shows the number of patients registered with a GP within the Selby and York Primary Care Trust (PCT) area for 200104 and the equivalent primary care groups in 2000.
	
		Registered GP patients ages for selected organisations, 30 September 200002
		
			Total 01 24 515 1624 2544 4564 6574 
		
		
			275,242 5,153 9,055 36,210 32,244 82,340 66,383 22,996 
			 4DK03 Selby PCG 2000 67,546 1,346 2,481 10,305 6,284 20,278 17,061 5,263 
			 4YT24 York PCG 2000 207,696 3,807 6,574 25,905 25,960 62,062 49,322 17,733 
			
			 5E2 Selby and York PCT 2001 277,918 5,054 9,080 36,145 33,751 82,516 67,037 23,117 
			   2002 280,633 5,125 8,687 36,359 34,884 81,895 68,655 23,402 
		
	
	Source:
	NHS Health and Social Care Information Centre, General and Personal Medical Services Statistics
	
		Registered GP Patients Ages for selected organisations, 30 September 200304
		
			 Number (headcount) 
			Total 04 514 1544 4564 6574 7584 85 and over 
		
		
			 5E2 Selby and York PCT 2003(65) 283,334 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 
			   2004 285,242 13,586 32,471 122,829 70,372 23,825 16,824 5,335 
		
	
	n/a = Denotes data not available.
	(65) Patient data has been revised from previously published figures and is not available at age level
	Source:
	NHS Health and Social Care Information Centre, General and Personal Medical Services Statistics.

Personal Expenses (Residential and Nursing Accommodation)

Anthony Steen: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what factors she takes into account when determining the level of personal expenses allowance (PEA) provided to those in (a) residential and (b) nursing accommodation; what items the PEA covers; when she last reviewed the level of the PEA; and what plans she has for further review.

Liam Byrne: The personal expenses allowance (PEA) was originally set with reference to the part III accommodation rates in income support and jobseekers allowance set by the Department for Work and Pensions. The PEA is periodically uprated taking into account the increase in average earnings and following discussions between the Department and the Department for Work and Pensions.
	A consultation exercise, due to end on 7 March, sets out proposed changes to the regulations and guidance on charges for residential accommodation; this includes a proposal to increase the PEA from 18.80 to 19.60 per week from April 2006.

Primary Care Trusts (North Yorkshire)

Anne McIntosh: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make a statement on the financial situation of the primary care trusts in North Yorkshire.

Liam Byrne: The information requested is shown in the table.
	
		North and East Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire primary care trusts (PCTs)Financial position 200405 and 200506 -- 000
		
			 Organisation name 200405 Final accounts surplus/(deficit) 200506 Month 6 forecast outturn surplus/(deficit) 
		
		
			 North East Lincolnshire PCT 0 0 
			 Selby and York PCT(66) (6,598) (9,968) 
			 East Yorkshire PCT 0 0 
			 Yorkshire Wolds and Coast PCT (6,116) 0 
			 Eastern Hull PCT 192 0 
			 West Hull PCT 35 0 
			 North Lincolnshire PCT 36 0 
			 Hambleton and  Richmondshire PCT 3 0 
			 Craven, Harrogate and Rural  District PCT 32 0 
			 Scarborough, Whitby and  Ryedale PCT 1 0 
		
	
	(66) Phase one turnaround organisation.
	Source:
	200506 monthly financial monitoring returns and 200405 audited summarisation schedules.
	The forecast outturn position for 200506, as submitted by National Health Service organisations (strategic health authorities, PCT and NHS trusts) at the mid-year point (month six), is available in the Library and is available on the Department's website at: www.dh.gov.uk/PublicationsAndStatistics/FreedomOflnformation/ClassesOflnformation/fs/en.

Private Offices

Sarah Teather: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the cost of her private office was in the last year for which figures are available.

Liam Byrne: In 200405, the total cost of running my right hon. Friend's private office, including all ministerial private offices, was 2,570,688.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Mike Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  which primary care trusts have not yet made available to those with a clinical need treatment approved by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence for use in rheumatoid arthritis;
	(2)  what assessment she has made of the potential impact of (a) existing NHS deficits on the uptake of treatment approved by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence for use in rheumatoid arthritis and (b) payment by results and practice-based commissioning on the availability of these treatments; and if she will make a statement.

Liam Byrne: All primary care trusts in England and Wales are obliged to fund, from general allocations, anti-tumour necrosis (anti-TNF) therapy for those patients with rheumatoid arthritis who meet the clinical guidelines issued by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence.
	Anti-TNF therapy is already commissioned at local level under arrangements that should cover the cost of patient attendances at out-patient clinics as well as any anti-TNF drugs.
	From 200607, payment by results will apply a national tariff to rheumatology out-patient clinics. The tariff will set the price for outpatient attendances and will exclude the additional cost of anti-TNF drugs, for which funding will continue to be negotiated locally. These arrangements are already operating in 200506 for National Health Service Foundation Trusts and other early implementers of payment by results.

Section 64 Funding

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what her Department's Section 64 budget was for (a) 200405 and (b) 200506; what the average amount of section 64 funding paid to each qualifying organisation has been in each financial year; and if she will make a statement.

Liam Byrne: The Department's budget for the Section 64 General Scheme of Grants for 200405 was 17.9 million and 200506 was 17.9 million. The average amount paid to grant recipients for 200405 was 35,500 and 200506 was 38,000.

Section 64 Funding

Lynne Featherstone: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether a review of the Section 64 grant is being conducted.

Liam Byrne: Ministers agreed in 2005 to a strategic review of Departmental funding to the voluntary and community sector. The review has not yet started.

Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether further ward closures are planned at Southport and Ormskirk hospital trust sites in the next 12 months.

Liam Byrne: This is a matter for Southport and Ormskirk hospital national health service trust, in partnership with local stakeholders.

Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the average percentage level of bed utilisation was in (a) Southport and Ormskirk hospital trust and (b) all acute hospitals in the Cheshire and Merseyside strategic health authority area in the last period for which figures are available.

Liam Byrne: The information is not available in the format requested. However, the following table shows data on average bed occupancy rates for all providers in the Cheshire and Merseyside strategic health authority (SHA) area with beds open overnight.
	
		Average occupancy rate, Cheshire and Merseyside SHA, 200405
		
			 Name Total (percentage occupancy) 
		
		
			 Cheshire and Merseyside Health Authority 85.9 
			 5 Boroughs Partnership National Health Service Trust 91.7 
			 Aintree Hospitals National Health Service Trust 92.2 
			 Central Liverpool Primary Care Trust (PCT) 88.8 
			 Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust 92.9 
			 Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology NHS Trust 67.9 
			 Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Trust 87.2 
			 East Cheshire NHS trust 84.5 
			 Ellesmere Port and Neston PCT 88.0 
			 Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Trust 61.9 
			 Mersey Care NHS Trust 90.0 
			 North Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust 82.7 
			 Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust 89.2 
			 Royal Liverpool Children's NHS Trust 71.0 
			 South Sefton PCT 83.5 
			 Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust 87.3 
			 St. Helens and Knowsley Hospitals NHS Trust 88.3 
			 The Cardiothoracic CentreLiverpool NHS Trust 66.2 
			 The Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust 81.2 
			 Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery NHS Trust 87.7 
			 Wirral Hospital NHS Trust 81.8 
		
	
	Note:
	Status: Published 30 September 2005
	Source:
	Department of Health form KH03

Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps her Department is taking to address the financial deficit of Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust.

Liam Byrne: It is the responsibility of strategic health authorities (SHAs) to deliver both overall financial balance for their local health communities and to ensure each and every organisation achieves financial balance. There is a degree of flexibility in how this is managed at a local level. SHAs can agree a recovery plan which phases the recovery of deficits over a number of years.
	Southport and Ormskirk Hospital National Health Service Trust has been assessed by turnaround specialists. Following the initial assessment the trust and the SHA are agreeing a tailored package of turnaround support. This will assist the chief executive in delivering turnaround. The trust's chief executive will remain responsible for delivery of turnaround.

Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate she has made of the likely number of posts to be (a) made redundant and (b) restructured in (i) the Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust and (ii) each other hospital in the Cheshire and Merseyside Strategic Health Authority if mergers are implemented.

Liam Byrne: Cheshire and Merseyside Strategic Health Authority (SHA) is developing proposals to enable national health service trusts to apply for foundation trust status by 2008. Part of this work is looking at whether the current organisational structure is best placed to meet patients' needs. There are currently no definite proposals for trust mergers in the SHA area.

Specialist Baby Care

Stewart Jackson: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many babies were moved between hospitals for admittance to a special care baby unit in the Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire health authority area in each of the last five years.

Rosie Winterton: The information requested is not collected centrally.

Stoma Services

Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  how much funding was allocated to stoma services in (a) England and (b) West Lancashire between 1997 and 2005;
	(2)  how much and what percentage of the NHS budget was spent on stoma services in the last year for which figures are available.

Liam Byrne: Health bodies have the responsibility to provide stoma services from their general funding allocation. It is not possible to identify the total amount, or percentage of the national health service budget, spent on stoma services.

Waiting Lists

Peter Bone: To ask the Secretary of State for Health 
	(1)  what assessment she has made since 31 December 2005 of whether any patient will have to wait more than six months for in-patient treatment in 2006;
	(2)  what recent assessment has been made of the maximum waiting time for an NHS in-patient operation.

Jane Kennedy: holding answer 7 February 2006
	The NHS now has an operating standard of six months for in-patient treatment. The Department routinely monitors performance against this standard and the relevant data is available on the Department's website at: www.performance.doh.gov.uk/waitingtimes/index.htm.
	When the NHS Plan was published in July 2000, more than a quarter of a million patients were waiting over six months for in-patient treatment. Data published earlier this month for end January 2006 showed that this figure had fallen to just 74. However, any breaches of the waiting time standards are unacceptable and the Department will continue to work closely to support the small number of NHS organisations where patients are waiting over six months.

NORTHERN IRELAND

Aggravated Burglary

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people have been prosecuted for aggravated burglary in Northern Ireland in each of the last 10 years.

David Hanson: Table 1 provides prosecution figures for the calendar years 1994 to 2003. Data beyond 2003 is currently not available.
	The figures provided cover prosecutions for a range of offences related to aggravated burglary including 'aggravated burglary with intent to steal', 'aggravated burglary with intent to commit grievous bodily harm', 'aggravated burglary with intent to cause unlawful damage', 'aggravated burglary and stealing' and 'aggravated burglary and inflicting grievous bodily harm'.
	Figures are collated on a principal offence basis, thus where more than one offence is heard per court sitting, only the most serious offence (based on that attracting the most severe penalty) is recorded.
	
		Table 1: Prosecutions for aggravated burglary 19942003
		
			  Number of prosecutions 
		
		
			 1994 37 
			 1995 15 
			 1996 36 
			 1997 41 
			 1998 28 
			 1999 22 
			 2000 27 
			 2001 15 
			 2002 17 
			 2003 21

Belfast Docks (Taxis)

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the extent of the co-operation between the Department of the Environment tax enforcement branch and the Belfast harbour police regarding the regulation of taxi hiring upon the arrival of cruise vessels at Belfast docks.

Angela Smith: The Department have no powers to enforce legal requirements governing the use of taxis on lands owned by Belfast harbour commissioners, as these lands are not regulated by powers granted to the Department under the Road Traffic (NI) Orders 1981 and 1995. Taxi enforcement officers attached to the Driver  Vehicle Testing Agency have provided advice and assistance to Belfast harbour police on several occasions during recent years regarding the operation of taxis collecting passengers from cruise vessels at Belfast docks and in the clarifying of legal arrangements.

Broadband

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland which schools in Northern Ireland do not have broadband internet access.

Angela Smith: There are six schools in Northern Ireland which do not have broadband internet access. The Department of Education does not hold information relating to broadband access in the 19 independent schools.
	The six schools are:
	Armagh Integrated College
	Drumlins Integrated Primary School
	Gaelscoil an Lonnain
	Gaelscoil na Mona
	Gaelscoil an Damba
	Bunscoil an Traonaigh
	These schools are only recently established or are to move premises soon.

Child Care

Mark Durkan: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what provision for child care is available through Department of Employment and Learning jobs and benefits offices for women returning to work; and how many women used that service in each of the last five years.

Angela Smith: The Department for Employment and Learning does not directly provide child care through the Jobs and Benefit Offices. Lone parents and partners of certain benefit recipients are eligible for assistance with child care costs when participating in the new deal programmes on a non-employed basis, and when participating in the Training for Work programme and Jobskills. The Department does not collect statistics on the number of women who have received assistance with child care costs, however assistance totalling 2,758,199.00 has been provided in the last five years. In addition, families in Northern Ireland can benefit from the child care element of the children's tax credit. The average assistance provided is 58.33 per family.

Child Care Support

Mark Durkan: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many (a) university students and (b) nursing students in Northern Ireland were receiving child care support in the latest period for which figures are available.

Angela Smith: In academic year 200405: (a) a total of 292 students on higher education courses at higher and further education institutions were in receipt of child care grant; and (b) no child care support is available for nursing students. However help with child care costs via working tax credit is available to students and student nurses, who, aside from their studies, are in full time remunerative employment.

Child Poverty

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many children were living in poverty in each (a) ward, (b) constituency and (c) county in Northern Ireland in each of the last 30 years.

Angela Smith: This information has been placed in the Library.

College Amalgamations

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will take steps to ensure that (a) Limavady and (b) other small further and higher education colleges in Northern Ireland retain their local identity following the planned college amalgamations.

Angela Smith: Under the Further Education Strategy for Northern Ireland there are no planned closures of college campuses, and FE colleges will continue to be at the heart of the local communities they serve. Colleges will continue to deliver, and build upon, the services they provide to learners and businesses in their local areas, as well as contributing to a more strategic and co-ordinated approach to the provision of skills across Northern Ireland. Every effort is being made to ensure that new governance arrangements will be representative of each of the amalgamated institutions, so that the strengths and facilities of all colleges and campuses in their areas are used to maximum effect both locally and further afield.

Cruelty to Animals

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people were convicted of offences involving cruelty to animals in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years.

David Hanson: Table 1 provides figures for the calendar years 1999 to 2003. Data beyond 2003 is currently not available.
	The figures include convictions for the offences of 'owner permitting cruelty to animals', 'abandoning animal', 'causing unnecessary suffering to animals', 'permitting cruelty of animals', 'cruelty to animals', 'causing unnecessary suffering to livestock' and 'causing unnecessary suffering to animal in transit'.
	Figures are collated on a principal offence basis, thus where more than one offence is heard per court sitting, only the most serious offence (based on that attracting the most severe penalty) is recorded.
	
		Table 1: Convictions in Northern Ireland for cruelty to animals 1999 to 2003
		
			  Number of convictions 
		
		
			 1999 33 
			 2000 21 
			 2001 16 
			 2002 9 
			 2003 24

Curriculum and Assessment

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland pursuant to his letter of 8 February 2006, (COR47/2006) to the hon. Member for North Down, on the revised curriculum and associated assessment arrangements, when he expects to be in a position to provide the further information to which he referred.

Angela Smith: Since the hon. Lady's correspondence, I met recently with Dr. Hugh Morrison from Queens University, and with the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA). CCEA will be providing their advice on Dr. Morrison's papers shortly and I will write to the hon. Lady as soon as possible after consideration of this advice.

Drug-related Crime

Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many drug-related crimes were committed in each ward in Northern Ireland in 200405.

Shaun Woodward: The Police Service of Northern Ireland do not record crime figures in the format requested. Incidents of crime are recorded by police district command unit and a monthly update is posted on the police website at www.psni.police.uk A copy of the full PSNI Statistical report for the year 200405 is also available on the website.

Equality Commission

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many meetings the Political Affairs Officer of the Equality Commission of Northern Ireland has had with each of the Northern Ireland political parties since being appointed in October 2004.

Angela Smith: I understand that the chief executive of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, Ms Evelyn Collins, has written to the hon. Gentleman in the following terms:
	The remit of the post of Political Affairs Officer includes the promotion and co- ordination of all points of engagement between the Equality Commission for NI and the political sector.
	The number of meetings held by the Commission with political parties, which have included the Political Affairs Officer, since October 2004 is:
	
		
			  Number of meetings 
		
		
			 DUP 2 
			 SDLP 3 
			 Sinn Fein 5 
			 Ulster Unionists 1

Equality Commission

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the extent to which the population in Northern Ireland is aware of the (a) existence, (b) role and (c) remit of the Equality Commission.

Angela Smith: I understand that the chief executive of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, Ms Evelyn Collins, has written to the hon. Gentleman in the following terms:
	The last full survey of awareness of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, published in 2002, found that 18 per cent. of people identified the Equality Commission as the body responsible for promotion of equality of opportunity in Northern Ireland.
	Following a significant television and newspaper campaign on race and disability rights, that figure increased to 28 per cent. later in that year. A smaller radio campaign to raise awareness of recently introduced legislation on sexual orientation showed that this figure was maintained in 200304 at 26 per cent.
	A further survey of the general public is currently under way, with results published by June 2006.

Fireworks

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people have been prosecuted for illegal (a) selling and (b) use of fireworks in Northern Ireland in each of the last 10 years.

David Hanson: Table 1 provides prosecution figures for the calendar years 1994 to 2003. Data beyond 2003 is currently not available.
	Figures for illegally selling fireworks cover a range of offences including 'selling fireworks to non-licence holder', 'selling fireworks without a licence' and 'selling the banger'. Figures for illegally using fireworks include prosecutions for the offences of 'using fireworks', 'throwing fireworks' and 'using the banger'.
	Figures are collated on a principal offence basis, thus where more than one offence is heard per court sitting, only the most serious offence (based on that attracting the most severe penalty) is recorded.
	
		Table 1: Prosecutions for illegal selling and use of fireworks 19942003
		
			  Illegal selling of fireworks Illegal use of fireworks 
		
		
			 1994 6 12 
			 1995 7 14 
			 1996 10 10 
			 1997 6 9 
			 1998 7 6 
			 1999 4 4 
			 2000 3 4 
			 2001 0 1 
			 2002 4 2 
			 2003 0 0

Free School Meals

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland pursuant to the answer to the hon. Member for Belfast East (Mr. Robinson) of 1 December 2005, Official Report, column 2240W, on free school meals, why the number of children in receipt of free school meals exceeds the number of children entitled to free school meals in the (a) South Eastern and (b) Southern Education and Library Board areas.

Angela Smith: Unfortunately, the information contained in my previous answer to the hon. Member for Belfast East on 15 December, Official Report, column 2241W, was incorrect. The figures given for the number of children in receipt of free school meals related to the wrong Education and Library Board for all areas except Belfast. The correct figures are given in the table.
	At October 2004, the number of schoolchildren entitled to, and in receipt of, free school meals in each Education and Library Board area was as follows:
	
		
			  Children entitled to free school meals Children in receipt of free school meals 
		
		
			 Belfast 15,280 12,533 
			 Western 15,219 13,786 
			 North Eastern 10,055 8,131 
			 South Eastern 8,823 6,640 
			 Southern 13,767 11,639 
			 Northern Ireland total63,144 52,729 
		
	
	Note:
	Figures relate to year 1 to year 7 pupils in primary schools and pupils at post-primary schools. Figures for pupils at special schools entitled to free school meals are not collected.
	The Department continues, through the Education and Library Boards, to take steps to encourage eligible pupils to take up their entitlement.

Free School Meals

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps are being taken by the Western Education and Library Board to encourage eligible pupils to take up their entitlement to free school meals.

Angela Smith: The Western Education and Library Board (WELB) is taking a number of steps to encourage eligible pupils to take up their entitlement to free school meals. These include: promotional activities (such as drawing attention to availability in schools' Admission Arrangements booklets, and reminding school Principals of the need to encourage uptake); partnership activities (such as working closely with the Social Security Agency (SSA) Western District to raise the profile of free school meals, and influencing strategies to facilitate the identification and targeting of existing claimants who have failed to take up their entitlement); and making it easier to take up entitlement by reducing the bureaucracy associated with making an application (including allowing rural low-income families to apply for free school meals directly to the Board. The Board, rather than the family, then verifies benefit entitlement with the relevant Social Security Office.)

Heroin Addicts

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what estimate he has made of the number of heroin addicts in Northern Ireland.

Shaun Woodward: An estimate of the number of heroin addicts in Northern Ireland is not available. However, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) maintains several databases that record the number of registered addicts and the uptake of treatment for problem drug use across Northern Ireland.
	The Northern Ireland Addicts Index Database holds information on all those persons registered in concurrence with the Misuse of Drugs (Notification of and Supply to Addicts) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 1973. The 2005 Statistical Bulletin reported that on 31 December 2005, a total of 168 persons were recorded as addicted to heroin. DHSSPS also maintains the Northern Ireland Substitute Prescribing Database, which holds information on persons receiving substitute prescribing treatment for opiate dependence. On 8 March 2006, a total of 249 people were recorded as in contact with substitute prescribing services where the main problem drug was heroin. DHSSPS also maintains the Northern Ireland Drug Misuse Database, which holds information relating to problem drug users presenting to treatment services. In 200405 a total of 237 persons reported where their main problem drug was heroin.
	It is important to note that problem drug use and dependence does not constitute addiction and that although there will be an overlap between the three databases, there will be a proportion of heroin addicts that may never be in contact with treatment services. In recognition of this issue, DHSSPS has already commissioned a research study (to include information from the Criminal Justice System) to produce a reliable estimate of problem heroin use in Northern Ireland. It is anticipated that that report will be published, via the DHSSPS website, in April of this year. A similar study conducted in 200001 indicated that there were approximately 800 problem heroin users in Northern Ireland during that period.

Hillsborough Castle

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many days per year Hillsborough castle is open to the public; and whether there are plans to increase this number in 2006.

Peter Hain: In 2006 Hillsborough castle will be open to the public for guided tours on Saturdays during May and June. In addition we will facilitate tours from organised groups during the working week, official business permitting. We will also open on European Heritage Open Days.
	We have no plans to extend public opening at present. Our experience from previous years has shown that visitor numbers would not be sufficient to make opening at other times of the year financially viable.

ICT Course

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what will be included in the new functional information and communications technology course to be taught in schools in Northern Ireland.

Angela Smith: The proposed introduction of a functional skills element into ICT qualifications is part of the 1419 White Paper published in England in February 2005. Proposals are at consultation stage and final decisions on the content of the course have not yet been reached. The Department of Education and the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment will consider in due course to what extent parallel adjustments may be needed to NI GCSEs to ensure that the common currency of GCSE qualifications across England, Wales and Northern Ireland is maintained.

Intelligent Design

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what redress is available to parents of a child removed from a class in Northern Ireland for expressing a belief in intelligent design.

Angela Smith: I would not expect such a situation to occur, as schools should show respect for the beliefs of every pupil. If it did, as with any issue of concern, parents should discuss the matter with the principal and Board of Governors of the school. If this did not resolve the issue, parents could seek redress from their Education and Library Board's Curriculum Complaints Tribunal.

Liquor Licensing

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the likely impact of the proposed reforms of liquor licensing on independent licensed premises in the North Down area, with particular reference to the removal of the surrender requirement.

David Hanson: The package of proposals will weigh up the rights, needs and demands of various interested parties. The measures will help boost the hospitality, leisure and tourism industries, afford a clearer voice to local residents living, and businesses operating, near premises where licensable activities are carried on, offer further protection for children, help tackle the issue of underage drinking and contribute to Government's strategy for combating alcohol-related crime and disorder and antisocial behaviour in Northern Ireland. Responses to the public consultation which ended on 31 January 2006 are being considered, including those from independent licensed premises. The Government intends to make a policy announcement in summer 2006.

Liquor Licensing

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland 
	(1)  whether substantive feedback will be provided to (a) respondents and (b) other stakeholders in the consultation on liquor licensing;
	(2)  whether the consultation on liquor licensing reform will be subject to evaluation.

David Hanson: Responses to the public consultation which ended on 31 January 2006 are being considered. The Government intends to make a policy announcement in summer 2006.

Liquor Licensing

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland 
	(1)  what assessment he has made of the potential for increased alcohol-related domestic violence if the proposals for an increase in the number of retail outlets selling alcohol outlined in the Liquor LicensingThe Way Forward are implemented; and if he will make a statement;
	(2)  what meetings he has had with representatives of organisations concerned with domestic violence regarding the proposed reform of liquor licensing; and if he will list the (a) participants and (b) the outcome of each meeting;
	(3)  what research he has commissioned on the potential for increased alcohol-related domestic violence if the proposals for an increase in the number of retail outlets selling alcohol outlined in the Liquor LicensingThe Way Forward are implemented; and if he will make a statement.

David Hanson: The proposals for reform of liquor licensing were drawn up with input from a steering group including officials from the Department for Social Development, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, the Northern Ireland Office and the Police Service of Northern Ireland. The consultation paper on the reform of liquor licensing was distributed to a wide range of bodies including organisations concerned with health, justice and community safety matters. The paper was also widely advertised and received a great deal of attention in the press and the media in general. No requests for meetings were received from organisations concerned with domestic violence.
	The number of retail outlets selling alcohol in Northern Ireland is a matter for the courts. It is proposed that it will become a matter for district councils in due course.

Lisanelly Barracks

Mark Durkan: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to maximise the potential social and economic opportunities for the community presented by the release of the Lisanelly Barracks site in Omagh.

David Hanson: Lisanelly Barracks is owned by the Ministry of Defence and any proposals for the site are the responsibility of the Secretary of State for Defence. Officials in Defence Estates, a Division within MoD with responsibility for the disposal of the Lisanelly Barracks are currently considering arrangements for the disposal of the site.
	Arrangements are in place to establish if any Northern Ireland Department has an interest in acquiring the site. If an interest is established, sites are offered at market value to the interested Department. Failing this, the site will be offered for sale to the wider public sector through a process run by the Valuation and Lands Agency, again at market value.
	If no interest is expressed through these routes, the site may, depending on circumstances, be offered to the former owner. Only after that process would the site be advertised and sold on the open market.

Long-term Unemployment Levels

William McCrea: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many people are long-term unemployed in each of the 18 Northern Ireland constituencies

Angela Smith: Long-term unemployment levels from the Claimant Count in each of the Northern Ireland parliamentary constituencies at January 2006 are provided in the following table.
	
		
			 Parliamentary constituency Claimant count unemployment 
		
		
			 Belfast East 165 
			 Belfast North 540 
			 Belfast South 240 
			 Belfast West 840 
			 East Antrim 265 
			 East Londonderry 345 
			 Fermanagh and South Tyrone 355 
			 Foyle 700 
			 Lagan Valley 150 
			 Mid Ulster 165 
			 Newry and Armagh 365 
			 North Antrim 255 
			 North Down 185 
			 South Antrim 195 
			 South Down 285 
			 Strangford 280 
			 Upper Bann 180 
			 West Tyrone 450

Message in a Bottle Scheme

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what funding has been allocated to community safety partnerships to enable the extension of the Message in a Bottle scheme throughout Northern Ireland.

David Hanson: The first Message in a Bottle Scheme was launched in Antrim on 2 December 2005 for which the local Community Safety Partnership provided 1,500 part-funding. A number of other Community Safety Partnerships are considering introducing the scheme within their areas. Discussions are ongoing between the Community Safety Unit, the Police Service of Northern Ireland and other potential partner organisations to explore how the scheme could be funded for extension across Northern Ireland.

Nurse Training

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the attrition rates were for nurse training courses in Northern Ireland in each year since 2001.

Shaun Woodward: There are approximately 2,349 full-time undergraduate nursing students in Northern Ireland. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety currently commissions 750 student nurse places annually between Queen's University Belfast, (QUB) and the University of Ulster, (UU). The duration of the pre-registration studentship is three years. The attrition rates for pre-registration nurse training from academic year 200102 until 200405 are as follows:
	
		Percentage
		
			 Academic year Queen's University Belfast University of Ulster 
		
		
			 200102 8 12 
			 200203 11.9 16 
			 200304 14.7 10 
			 200405 7.1 8 
		
	
	Source:
	Queen's University Belfast and University of Ulster

PGCE Students (Financial Assistance)

Alasdair McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will take steps to reduce the difference in the levels of financial assistance available to Postgraduate Certificate in Education students in Northern Ireland and England and Wales.

Angela Smith: The Education (Student Support) Regulations (Northern Ireland) underpin the financial support arrangements for Northern Ireland domiciled students in higher education, including students on Postgraduate Certificate in Education courses. They broadly replicate provisions in the corresponding GB Regulations which apply to English and Welsh domiciled students.
	There are no compelling reasons to offer financial incentives similar to those available to teacher training students in England and Wales, including NI domiciled students, to encourage recruitment to or retain teachers within the profession here, as this is not a pressing problem in NI. Applications to teacher training courses in Northern Ireland currently exceed by 8 to 1 the number of places available. Moreover, there is no evidence that the existence of incentives elsewhere is diverting applicants away from the NI institutions. The position, however, is kept under close review.

Police Service

Alasdair McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what funding has been made available to the Police Service of Northern Ireland unit established to tackle the targeting of elderly people by criminal gangs.

Shaun Woodward: I am advised by the Chief Constable that funding for this initiative is from within existing resources.

Policing Accountability Report

David Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the total cost was of the Policing, Accountability and the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Community Report published by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland.

Shaun Woodward: The Policing Accountability and the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Community in Northern Ireland Report was jointly commissioned by the Police Ombudsman and the Northern Ireland Policing Board. The total cost of the report was 20,650. The Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland paid 6,884 and the Northern Ireland Policing Board paid 13,766.

Primary Schools

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many pupils were enrolled in Northern Ireland at (a) controlled, (b) maintained and (c) integrated primary schools as at December 2005.

Angela Smith: The annual school census gathers enrolment data at October each year. Enrolments in primary schools in Northern Ireland at October 2005 were as follows:
	
		
			  Enrolments 
		
		
			 Controlled schools 80,508 
			 Maintained schools 79,859 
			 Integrated schools 7,045 
		
	
	Notes:
	1. The figures provided include pupils in nursery, reception and Year 1 to Year 7 classes, where applicable.
	2. The figures exclude preparatory departments of grammar schools.
	3. The figure for Controlled schools excludes Controlled Integrated schools; these are included in the figure for integrated schools.

Recycling (Domestic Waste)

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what percentage of domestic waste each council in Northern Ireland recycled in each of the last three years, listed in descending order.

Angela Smith: The following tables set out total household waste recycled and composted as a percentage of total household waste arisings for the years 2002, 2003 and 200405 (in descending order). The apparent inconsistencies in the data arise because some data were submitted on a calendar year. Since mid-2003, district councils have submitted data on a quarterly basis. It has been decided that financial years will be reported in future.
	
		Table 1: 2002 Household waste recycling rates
		
			 District council Household waste recovered as a percentage of household waste arisings 
		
		
			 Banbridge District Council 29.5 
			 Ballymena Borough Council 21.0 
			 Antrim Borough Council 19.1 
			 Cookstown District Council 17.3 
			 Newtownabbey Borough Council 16.5 
			 Armagh City and District Council 16.5 
			 Craigavon Borough Council 16.1 
			 Down District Council 13.5 
			 North Down Borough Council 11.1 
			 Dungannon  South Tyrone Borough  Council 10.9 
			 Fermanagh District Council 10.6 
			 Ballymoney Borough Council 10.2 
			 Ards Borough Council 9.6 
			 Newry  Mourne District Council 9.3 
			 Omagh District Council 9.1 
			 Lisburn City Council 9.0 
			 Carrickfergus Borough Council 8.2 
			 Coleraine Borough Council 6.8 
			 Larne Borough Council 6.0 
			 Castlereagh Borough Council 5.0 
			 Magherafelt District Council 4.9 
			 Strabane District Council 4.1 
			 Belfast City Council 4.0 
			 Derry City Council 2.7 
			 Limavady Borough Council 2.5 
			 Moyle District Council 2.1 
			 NI Total 10.0 
		
	
	
		Table 2: 2003 household waste recycling rates
		
			 District Councils Household waste recovered as a percentage of household waste arisings 
		
		
			 Banbridge District Council 33.3 
			 Antrim Borough Council 22.4 
			 Armagh City and District Council 21.0 
			 Craigavon Borough Council 19.3 
			 Magherafelt District Council 18.1 
			 Ballymena Borough Council 18.0 
			 Fermanagh District Council 17.5 
			 Newtownabbey Borough Council 17.0 
			 Cookstown District Council 16.2 
			 Dungannon  South Tyrone Borough  Council 13.4 
			 Newry  Mourne District Council 13.4 
			 Down District Council 13.3 
			 North Down Borough Council 12.6 
			 Omagh District Council 12.2 
			 Castlereagh Borough Council 12.1 
			 Coleraine Borough Council 11.6 
			 Limavady Borough Council 10.9 
			 Carrickfergus Borough Council 10.5 
			 Ballymoney Borough Council 9.9 
			 Larne Borough Council 9.6 
			 Lisburn City Council 9.2 
			 Ards Borough Council 9.0 
			 Strabane District Council 8.6 
			 Derry City Council 7.2 
			 Belfast City Council 4.6 
			 Moyle District Council 4.6 
			 NI Total 12.5 
		
	
	
		Table 3: 200405 household waste recycling rates
		
			  Household waste recovered as a percentage of household waste arisings 
		
		
			 Banbridge District Council 39.2 
			 Antrim Borough Council 38.4 
			 Magherafelt District Council 31.4 
			 Limavady Borough Council 27.3 
			 Ballymoney Borough Council 24.0 
			 Ballymena Borough Council 23.4 
			 Craigavon Borough Council 23.3 
			 Armagh City and District Council 23.3 
			 Castlereagh Borough Council 22.2 
			 Fermanagh District Council 21.0 
			 Ards Borough Council 20.4 
			 Dungannon  South Tyrone Borough  Council 20.1 
			 Cookstown District Council 20.1 
			 Newry  Mourne District Council 20.0 
			 Newtownabbey Borough Council 19.9 
			 Omagh District Council 19.6 
			 Down District Council 19.2 
			 Coleraine Borough Council 18.6 
			 Strabane District Council 17.3 
			 North Down Borough Council 17.2 
			 Carrickfergus Borough Council 17.2 
			 Larne Borough Council 16.5 
			 Derry City Council 13.7 
			 Lisburn City Council 12.2 
			 Moyle District Council 11.3 
			 Belfast City Council 8.9 
			 NI Total 18.9

Recycling (Domestic Waste)

Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what targets have been set for recycling domestic waste in each council area in Northern Ireland by 2010.

Angela Smith: The Northern Ireland Waste Management Strategy 2000 sets an overall requirement for district councils to recover 25 per cent. of household waste by March 2006, and to recover 40 per cent. of household waste by 2010, of which 25 per cent. should be by recycling or composting.
	The new Waste Management Strategy, scheduled to be published at the end of March 2006, will build on the targets set in 2000.

Single Farm Payment

William McCrea: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when all payments under the single farm payment scheme will be concluded in Northern Ireland.

Angela Smith: European Union Regulations provide for the single farm payment to be paid between 1 December of the year of application and 30 June of the following year. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is processing payments on eligible claims for the 2005 scheme-year in accordance with the EU legislation. In some exceptional circumstances it may be necessary to reserve payment until after June 2006 where a complex query cannot be resolved.

Temozolomide

Lady Hermon: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to make the drug temozolomide available on the NHS in Northern Ireland for the treatment of serious brain conditions.

Shaun Woodward: The drug temozolomide is currently available in Northern Ireland as a second line chemotherapy treatment for patients suffering from recurrent malignant glioma (brain cancer).
	Temozolomide is not available for the treatment of newly diagnosed glioma as it has not yet been fully assessed for that indication by NICE or other relevant authorities. It is important that before drugs are made generally available for new indications they go through the full licensing and evaluation process as only then can we be assured of their safety and efficacy.